The common admission regulations governing Masters degree in the University of Nairobi and the Faculty of Agriculture shall be applicable.

The following shall be eligible for admission for the degree in Agricultural Economics.

Holders of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification in Agriculture, Food Science, Range Management or in any other subject are judged relevant from a university recognized by Senate

Holders of Lower Second Class Honours degree in the same discipline as in 2.2 (i) from the University of Nairobi or from another University recognized by the senate but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training since graduation with a Bachelors degree.

Holders of a Pass degree in the same discipline as in 2.2 (i) and a relevant postgraduate diploma from a recognized University or at least five years of field experience and evidence of research publication since graduation.

Background to micro-economics and game-theoretic framework for analyzing economic behaviour; theory of consumer behaviour (focusing on utility and utility maximization, indifference curves, marginal rate of substitution, intermediate and dynamic theories of demand including demand functions, comparative statics, market demand, labour-leisure choice, substitution and income effects of a price change); theory of the firm and production economics (intermediate and dynamic theories of supply and costs, focusing on the concepts of Technology and production functions

The programme lasts for a minimum of four semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters and offered by coursework, examination and thesis. Coursework consists of lecturers, tutorials, practicals, and seminars.

Students are required to take 13 units of course work and a thesis project. A course unit will consist of 45 contact hours while a project will be equivalent to 4 units.

On successful completion of coursework, students devote the rest of the period to research in a given approved subject area and writing of thesis under supervision.

Students will take a minimum of 3 course units per semester of 15 weeks.

A written comprehensive examination in each subject area of the course consisting of a 2-hours paper per course unit equivalent shall be given at the end of each teaching semester of the first year of study. The following is the list of the comprehensive written examination papers to be taken during the first year of the programme:

Year 1 First Semester Examinations :

CODE

COURSE NAME

EXAMINATION

AEC 501

Microeconomics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 503

Macroeconomics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 505

Mathematics for Economists

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 507

Statistics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 509

Project Planning and Analysis

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 511

Farm Management

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 513

Rural Development & Agricultural Policy

1 x 3 hr paper

Year 1 Second Semester Examinations:

CODE

COURSE NAME

EXAMINATION

AEC 502

Econometrics

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 504

Operations Research

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 508

Agricultural Marketing

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 510

International Agricultural Trade

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 512

Development Economics

1 x 3 hr paper

The average mark obtained in the written comprehensive examination shall contribute 70% to the final overall mark in each subject area of the part 1 University Examination, the remaining 30% being made up of the coursework assessment conducted by the Department.

A candidate who fails initially in less than 50% of the written examination papers at the end of the first year of study shall be allowed to take written re-sit (supplementary) examination papers in the failed subjects.

A candidate who fails initially in more than 50% of the written examination papers taken during the first year of study or who fails in any of the written re-sit (supplementary) examination papers shall be discontinued.

The board of examiners for Part I University Examination shall consist of:

At least three internal examiners who have participated in the formal tuition during the first year of study; and

One examiner external to the University.

3.2 Part II University Examination:

The Part II University Examination shall consist of the assessment of the research thesis, based on the project undertaken in the second year of study, which shall be submitted within the time specified in the common regulations for the Masters Degree in all Faculties.

The Board of Examiners for the Part II University Examination shall consist of not less than three Examiners, at least one who shall be an external examiner to the university.

General regulations of the university of Nairobi and the Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.

6.1 Written examinations

Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

Each examination covering a unit of coursework will be two hours while all other coursework examinations will take three hours.

Each examination shall be graded out of 100% of which 70% shall constitute written examinations while the continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30%.

The pass mark in each examination shall be 50%

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times. The candidate shall pay registration and examination fees for the course units to be retaken.

A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the course.

A candidate who fails after repeating the course shall be discontinued.

6.2 Thesis examination

Candidates will conduct a thesis research undertaken after completing the coursework successfully. The thesis shall be submitted within the time specified in the common Regulations for the Masters Degree in all faculties.

The Board of Examiners for the thesis Examination shall consist of not less than three examiners, at least one of whom shall be an external examiner to the University.

A candidate who fails to satisfy the Board of Examiners recommendations shall be discontinued.

Agriculture is the mainstay of Kenyas economy and creating an understanding of how the available resources in the country can be allocated optimally to spur economic growth and development is critical. The Master of Science in Agricultural Economics is intended to equip the students with skills necessary to develop the understanding and apply those skills to contribute towards agricultural development anywhere in the world. The demand for a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics is very high. This is reflected by the large number of applications received whenever the course is advertised for offer and the numerous inquiries received about opportunities available for undertaking a Master degree in the department. Previously, many applicants relied on the availability of University/Government scholarship to take up the training in Master in Agricultural Economics but currently, many potential students have expressed the desire and willingness to take up the masters degree with government or self-sponsorship. This has necessitated adjusting/revising the existing masters programme to reflect the realities of the moment.

The objectives of the Masters in Agricultural Economics is to give a firm grounding in the field of Agricultural Economics and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to:

Understand the nature of agricultural development problems and analyse the problems to be able to offer alternative viable solutions to the problems.

Undertake agricultural policy analysis for relevant policy formulation and to stimulate sectoral and national economic growth and development.

Participate effectively in for a designing and implementing strategy for agricultural development locally, regionally and globally.

Offer advisory and training services to government, farmers and other private sector players in the field of agricultural economics for the improvement in performance in their respective roles, capacities and outputs.

A candidate may be exempted from some units and credits transferred from recognized institutions, subject to the following conditions being fulfilled.

The candidate must have passed the unit at M.Sc. level at a University recognized by Senate and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting documents, through the Dean, Faculty Agriculture and Director of Postgraduate studies.

The course must have covered similar content and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

The applicant shall have paid a non-refundable application fee as shall be determined by the university.

Any approved transfer shall be recorded as 50% in the students academic record.

The department may administer an exemption examination on behalf of the Faculty.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding:

Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.

Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

6.1.1 Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.1.2 All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

6.1.3 A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

6.1.4 Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination.

6.1.5 Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

6.1.6 The pass mark shall be 50%.

6.1.7 The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

6.1.8 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

6.1.9 The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

6.1.10 A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the senate be discontinued.

6.2 Research Project

6.2.1 The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.2.2 Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

6.2.3 A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

6.2.4 A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

Plant breeding has for a long term been focussed on developing types better suited for satisfying agricultural needs for food and nutrition, and even for clothing, fuel, drugs and aesthetically pleasing ornamentals. Improved materials have led to increased yields, better varieties for new agricultural areas, better agronomic and horticultural characteristics, varieties resistant to heat cold, or drought and improved quality of agricultural products. Much has been achieved through classical breeding made possible by the application of Mendelian and statistical genetics. Genetic improvement has taken on a complex dimension of the interrelationships of genes, crops and the environment and/or issues of genetic resources ownership, access and equity. Biotechnology that makes it possible for rapid genetic manipulation brings with it concerns of the intellectual property. All these have changed the face of plant breeding with implications on global trade, third world poverty and food security.

The dynamism must urgently be captured by applying strategic capacity building for the benefit of agricultural development of the country. In light of the above, the programme is thus tailored to remain versatile to the changing times. It is also made more flexible and versatile to allow any course to be taken in an occasional mode or a carry-over on its own as a unit (or its fraction) toward the prescribed parts of the programme. Two specializations (one in crop improvement and the other in genomic studies ) do broaden the programme horizons as options students may wish to take relative to the prevailing job market opportunities and the emerging advances in the field of plant breeding and applied genetics. More over, the programme is structured in such a way as to fit more library time, self-study and part-time learning where full time undertaking is not possible.

The objectives of this programme are therefore: -

(i) To produce graduates with ability to identify research imperatives in plant breeding, design and execute plant breeding research projects aimed at solving the problems within a changing agricultural environment. At the same time, the training is to update the plant breeders with the latest developments in the field of crop improvement and genomic studies.

(ii) To train highly skilled plant breeders who will help optimise the countrys ability to attain food security and better nutrition while improving agriculture-based incomes from improved product(s).

A candidate may be exempted from some course units and credit(s) transferred institutions recognised by the Senate, subject to the following conditions:-

Must have passed in similar course units at Masters level.

Request for exemption should be made in writing, on admission, to the Director Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents.

Candidates may be allowed to transfer up to one third of the total number of course units.

2.1 The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.

2.2 The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Horticulture:-

2.2.1 Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

2.2.2 Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

2.2.3 Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.

2.2.4 Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

6.1.1 Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.1.2 All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

6.1.3 A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

6.1.4 Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination

6.1.5 Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

6.1.6 The pass mark shall be 50%.

6.1.7 The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

6.1.8 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

6.1.9 The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

6.1.10 A candidate who successfully completes and passes the prescribed coursework and opts or does not obtain the required pass in a project research shall be awarded a postgraduate diploma that shall specify the particular specialization option for the prescribed course-work.

6.1.11 A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or re-take or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

6.2 Research Project

6.2.1 The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.2.2 Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

6.2.3 A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

6.2.4 A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

Over the past two decades, the horticultural industry in Kenya has expanded tremendously becoming a major contributor to the countrys foreign exchange earnings. Large numbers of vegetables, cut flowers and fruits are exported to the European Union, Middle East , and North Africa . The sub-sector utilizes labour intensively and thus is a leading employer.

Recognizing the agro-business potential of this discipline and a self-employment venture, the programme is thus tailored to meet the needs of a wider public clientele than has traditionally been the case. It is made more flexible and versatile to allow any course to be taken in an occasional mode or a carry-over on its own as a unit (or its fraction) toward the prescribed parts of the programme. Two specializations (one in fruit and vegetable production and the other in flower and landscape horticultural production) do broaden the programme horizons as options students may wish to take relative to the prevailing job market opportunities and the emerging advances in the field of horticulture. More over, the programme is structured in such a way as to fit more library time, self-study and part-time learning where full time undertaking is not possible.

The objectives of this programme are therefore:-

(i) To produce graduates with ability to identify research problems, design and execute research projects aimed at solving the problems within a changing agricultural environment. At the same time, the training is to update the horticulturalists with the latest developments in the field of fruit and vegetable and/or flower and landscape horticulture production .

(ii) To train highly skilled horticulturalists in fruit and vegetable and/or flower and landscape horticulture production to help optimise the countrys ability to attain food security and better nutrition while improving agriculture-based incomes from horticultural production.

The common regulations governing Masters Degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Animal Science, or an equivalent qualification form an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in (2.2) above, but with at least two years relevant research work experience evidenced by publications, or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in (2.2) above or an equivalent qualification from an institution from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with a pass plus a post-graduate diploma in Rangeland Resource Management may be considered.

Each course shall be examined separately by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester in which the course is offered.

The written examinations shall constitute 70% while continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30% of the final mark.

The pass mark for each paper shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners, and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit the failed paper twice.

The pass mark obtained after a re-sit examination shall be recorded as 50%.

A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or retake examination or fails to complete the programme within the prescribed period shall, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate, be discontinued.

The Range Graduate Seminar course shall be examined by oral presentations of prepared papers on topical range management issues and shall have a pass mark of 50%.

Project and Dissertation

The research project shall be examined by written dissertation and oral presentation.

A candidate who fails in the research project shall be allowed two re-submissions; and shall be discontinued after a fail in the second re-submission.

The research project shall be agreed upon between the candidate and the departmental academic supervisors and shall be conducted after the candidate has passed all examinations in the prescribed courses. The research project shall be allocated a maximum of one semester.

Each candidate shall be required to present two seminars on the research project; one on completion of the research proposal preparation and the other upon completion of the said research.

Skilled manpower trained at the post-graduate level in rangeland resource management is limited in most African countries. The majority of the rangeland resource managers in the region have been trained abroad where training is not appropriate for the African set up where the mode of production is largely labour-intensive, low capital subsistence pastoralism. Trained skilled manpower is expected to act as a catalyst for enhancing the productivity and human support capacity for pastoral systems in the region. The objectives of the programme are to equip trainees with relevant skills to enable them participate in the rehabilitation, rational management and efficient utilization and conservation of arid and semi-arid land resources.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall be applicable. The following shall be eligible for admission to the Master of Science in Agricultural Resource Management:

A holder of Bachelor of Science degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours or equivalent in Agricultural Science, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Forestry and other relevant disciplines from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institutions recognized by Senate.

A holder of a Bachelors degree, of Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate or with at least two years relevant experience, demonstrated through research and publications.

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate, and at least two years of relevant work experience.

The programme shall be completed in a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters, each semester consisting of 15 teaching weeks.

The six core courses shall all be taken in the first semester or equivalent before specializing in the major and elective courses. Each candidate shall be required to specialize in only one of the five major areas and take all the four courses in that major and two elective courses during the second and third semesters of study or equivalent. For each candidate, all the courses in the remaining four major areas shall constitute elective courses.

The minimum number of courses taken per semester shall be three and a maximum of six.

All the courses shall each be of 45 hours duration.

Each candidate shall be required to undertake a research project leading to writing of a project report.

The research theme shall be within the area of specialization and will be agreed upon between the candidate and the Faculty academic supervisors. The project research and report preparation shall be allowed a duration of two semesters equivalent to ten course units.

Each candidate shall be required to present two seminars on the project research, one on completion of the research proposal and the other upon completion of the said research.

The Faculty of Agriculture has been offering training for M.Sc. degree in the specialized areas of Agriculture such as agronomy, horticulture, plant breeding, agricultural economics, animal production, food science and technology, land and water management, plant pathology etc. The qualified persons have played strategic roles in the development of the Agricultural Industry in the region. Agricultural research requires training in specialized areas because enough depth of coverage in agricultural science and its application will have been made to facilitate effective performance by the graduate. There is a growing need in the industry for graduates who take a holistic approach to solving agricultural problems especially in the tropical and subtropical countries. Most individuals, governmental and Non Governmental Organizations, who find it more expensive to hire a multiple of professionals rather than one individual to solve multifaceted agricultural problems. It was for the foregoing reasons that the degree of M.Sc. in Agricultural Resource Management was developed. The program was developed to train specialized Agricultural personnel in the region.

The objectives of the course are:

To use a holistic approach to provide skills needed in agricultural research and solving agricultural problems in the region.

To contribute to development of higher education in all areas of agricultural science and technology.

A candidate may, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval by Senate, be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of the taught course units offered in the programme. Applicants seeking transfer of credits shall:

Send a formal application to the director, Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture seeking transfer of credits. Justification of request and evidence of credentials, which would support such a request, shall be attached to the application;

Application for transfer of credit shall be processed after payment of prescribed fees;

Applicants shall only be allowed to transfer units, which are equivalent to the same level offered in the University of Nairobi.

(a)The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and project.

(b)The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 15 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

(c)Each candidate will be required to take and pass in all the 9 compulsory courses.

(d)A student shall be required to take a minimum of two courses in one semester and a maximum of four.

(e)On successful completion of coursework, each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable project paper. The choice of the project shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

(d)Each course unit shall have a minimum of 45 lecture hours and 15 practicals and shall be covered in one semester.

a)Each course shall be examined by a semester written paper lasting three hours at the end of each semester in which the course is given.

b)The written examinations shall account for 70% and coursework assessment for 30% of the final mark.

c)The pass mark for each paper shall be 50 %

d)A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, and approvalby the senate be allowed to take up to two resits or retakes in failed papers the next time they are offered after paying appropriate fee.

e)A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the programme in the prescribed duration of 15 semesters shall be discontinued.

f)The mark for a resit paper shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate

The course in plant pathology aims at training and equipping technical personnel in all matters pertaining to plant disease and their management. Issues on crop protection play a key role in agriculture and in the horticultural industry which is now the fastest growing industry in Kenya.

In depth studies on causes of plant diseases, factors that influence plant epidemics and effective management of the diseases will be taught. Training on pesticide efficacy and effects on the environment in relation to risks and proper usage of the chemicals will be given. Host-pathogen relationships, plant disease resistance and biotechnology aspects including biosafety aspects on transgenics and living modified organisms (LMO) will be addressed. The candidate will be taught research methodologies and will be equipped with the necessary tools, for undertaking research. The training will produce competent personnel capable of handling all issues relating to plant diseases and their management and capable of making enlightened decisions in the relevant field.

Objectives of the program are to:

a)Train qualified personnel in the field of plant pathology who will be competent in identifying and managing plant diseases using environmentally safe procedures.

b)Equip the candidates with the necessary tools to undertake research in all fields of plant pathology.

Applicants may apply for credit transfer for similar courses taken in other institutions approved by the senate provided no applicant will be allowed to transfer more than 1/3 of the prescribed courses. Such applications may be made on payment of prescribed fees.

(a)The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and project.

(b)The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 15 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

(c)Each candidate will be required to take and pass in all the 9 compulsory courses.

(d)A student shall be required to take a minimum of two courses in one semester and a maximum of four.

(e)On successful completion of coursework, each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable project paper. The choice of the project shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

(d)Each course unit shall have a minimum of 45 lecture hours and 15 practicals and shall be covered in one semester.

a)Each course shall be examined by a semester written paper lasting three hours at the end of each semester in which the course is given.

b)The written examinations shall account for 70% and coursework assessment for 30% of the final mark.

c)The pass mark for each paper shall be 50 %

d)A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, and approvalby the senate be allowed to take up to two resits or retakes in failed papers the next time they are offered after paying appropriate fee.

e)A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the programme in the prescribed duration of 15 semesters shall be discontinued.

f)The mark for a resit paper shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate

The course in plant pathology aims at training and equipping technical personnel in all matters pertaining to plant disease and their management. Issues on crop protection play a key role in agriculture and in the horticultural industry which is now the fastest growing industry in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Kenya.

In depth studies on causes of plant diseases, factors that influence plant epidemics and effective management of the diseases will be taught. Training on pesticide efficacy and effects on the environment in relation to risks and proper usage of the chemicals will be given. Host-pathogen relationships, plant disease resistance and biotechnology aspects including biosafety aspects on transgenics and living modified organisms (LMO) will be addressed. The candidate will be taught research methodologies and will be equipped with the necessary tools, for undertaking research. The training will produce competent personnel capable of handling all issues relating to plant diseases and their management and capable of making enlightened decisions in the relevant field.

Objectives of the program are to:

a)Train qualified personnel in the field of plant pathology who will be competent in identifying and managing plant diseases using environmentally safe procedures.

b)Equip the candidates with the necessary tools to undertake research in all fields of plant pathology.

The degree programme shall consist of 7 core courses, 4 specialization courses and a research project.

The minimum duration of the course shall be four semesters and the maximum shall be 12 semesters (extended duration). Each semester shall consist of 15 weeks or equivalent. For extended duration, the minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be three.

A course unit shall be defined as consisting of 45 contact hours of lectures, tutorials, practicals or demonstrations and seminars, separately taken or in combination.

The core courses shall be taken in the first semester or equivalent while the specialization courses shall be taken during the second and third semesters of study or equivalent. Each student shall be required to major in only one of the two speciality areas.

Candidates shall be required to take 11 level-600 courses, which must include all the six compulsory courses plus four specialization (option) courses. The project report shall be separate.

The minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be 3 and the maximum 6.

The project shall be regarded as equivalent to ten course units.

Candidates shall be required to participate in Research Methods and Graduate Seminars as an examinable course unit

The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Agronomy:

Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 1 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.
Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 1 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination

Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

The pass mark shall be 50%.

The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

A candidate who successfully completes and passes the prescribed coursework and opts or does not obtain the required pass in a project research shall be awarded a postgraduate diploma that shall specify the particular specialization option for the prescribed course-work.

A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or re-take or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

Research Project

The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties shall apply.

The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an upper second class honours degree or its equivalent qualification in BSc. Food Science, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences or Medical Sciences from University of Nairobi, or equivalent qualification from any other Institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of at least a Lower Second Class honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.2 (i) from the University of Nairobi or from another Institution recognized by the Senate, but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

Pass degree with at least five years of experience and must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

The oral presentation of the project shall constitute 30% of the total mark, while the written dissertation shall constitute 70%.

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times.

A pass obtained by resitting an examination shall be recorded as 50%.

A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the year.

A candidate who fails in the oral presentation of the project or in the written report shall be allowed to resit or resubmit either of the two up to a maximum of two times depending on the component failed.

A Candidate who fails in the second resit of the oral examination or resubmission of the written dissertation or exceeds the prescribed time duration shall be discontinued

Advanced training and research in nutrition is necessary in order to address upcoming challenges and emerging issues in nutrition and health. There is an increasing demand on training in applied nutrition over the years. The M.Sc. programme is designed to help the trainees understand malnutrition and its consequences and methods of alleviating nutritional problems. The programme will, therefore, build capacity for the improvement of nutritional policy making in Kenya and other developing countries in African and other regions. The programme will offer practical training using appropriate data collected in Kenya and other African countries.

The objectives of the course are to:

Provide students with abilities to assess community nutritional problems from a multi-disciplinary point of view, while applying information technology in suggesting/working out realistic and feasible intervention measures.

Provide students with abilities to implement investigations in the field of applied nutrition and analyze, interpret and disseminate findings to the relevant stakeholders.

Provide students with abilities to effectively use relevant nutrition tools and information to advocate for nutrition actions and influence policies.

A student may be exempted from some courses and credits transferred from Institutions recognized by Senate.

The candidate must have passed in similar course units at Masters level or equivalent and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting document, through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and to the Director of Board of Postgraduate studies

The courses must have similar contents and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

The applicant shall pay a non-refundable exemption application fee as determined by the University.

The applicant cannot transfer more than one third of the course units.

The Department of Food Science and Technology offers a Master of Science Programme in Food Science and Technology with option in either Food Science or Food Technology.The Programme consists of a year of coursework followed by a year of individual research leading to a thesis

The common regulations governing Masters programmes in all faculties, institutes and schools shall apply.

Applications will be considered from graduates in any field and professionals in mid-career, provided they satisfy prerequisites considered necessary to succeed in a rigorous program of study and research.

The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification in Agriculture, Food Science, and Range Management or in any other subject area judged relevant from a University recognized by Senate.

Holders of Lower Second Class Honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.3.1 from the University of Nairobi or from another University recognized by Senate, with at least two years relevant research experience, with supporting publications.

Holders of a Pass degree in the same disciplines as in 2.3.1 and a relevant postgraduate diploma from a recognized University or at least five years of field experience and evidence of research publication since graduation.

Holders of equivalent qualifications from other Universities recognized by the University of Nairobi senate.

Review of Concepts of Consumer Behaviour; Utility Maximization; Individual Consumer and Market Demand; Elasticity of Demand Functions; Income and Substitution Effects; Theory of Revealed Preference and applications; Theory of the Firm ; The Problem of Choice in Situations Involving Risk; Multiperiod Consumption; Consumption Efficiency and Gains from Exchange ; Short and Long Run Market Analysis.

AEC 603: Mathematics for Economists

Application of Sets, Functions and Linear Algebra in Economics; Application of Differential and Integral Calculus in Economics; Application of Differential and Difference Equations; Elements of Linear and Non-Linear Programming; Optimization and Dynamic Analysis

Theoretical Foundations for Understanding Issues in Agricultural and Applied Economics; Topical Issues and Emerging Challenges at the Frontiers of Agricultural and Rural Development; Developing Special Skills for Understanding and Appraising Scholarly Writings and Policy Documents.

AEC 602: Production Economics

Review/Overview conditions for profit maximization; Representing Technology in One and Two-Input Case; Cost, Profit, and Supply Functions of the Firm; Cost Minimization and Profit Maximization in the Two-Input Case; Returns to Size and Returns to Scale; Technical Efficiency and Technology Adoption; Using the Profit Function to Estimate Supply and Factor Demand; Linear Programming (LP) and the Theory of Production; Risk and Uncertainty in Production; Household Production Model of Smallholder Agriculture.

AEC 604: Macroeconomics

Review of Macroeconomics: Comparative Statics and Keynesian theory; IS-LM Model, Extensions, and Microeconomic Foundations of Macroeconomics, Consumption and Savings Theory; Investment Theories and Applications in Agriculture; Business Cycle Theories and Applications; Open Macroeconomic Theories; Growth Models and Social Accounting Matrix; The Labour Market, Inflation, and Unemployment.

AEC 606: Econometrics

Introduction to Econometrics; Problems of Measurement, specification, estimation and their Solutions; Qualitative independent and Limited Dependent Variable Models; Simultaneous Equations Models; Introduction to Time Series Analysis; Analysis of Panel Data.

A candidate may be exempted up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses, provided that these are from institutions recognized by the Senate of the University of Nairobi .

Applicants seeking course exemptions shall send a formal application to the Director, Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture which should include justification of request, and attach evidence of relevant credentials in support of the request. The application shall be processed only after payment of the prescribed fees.

Applicants will only be exempted from a course offered at a level which is equivalent to what is offered by the University of Nairobi .

Elective Courses : Students shall select their preferred specialization, take the foundation course for the cluster (*), and at least two electives under the cluster. Students taking Agribusiness Management specialization will have the foundation course and the two compulsory courses (**), and could opt for an additional elective under the cluster.

The course consists of coursework, continuous assessment, written examination and a research project.

The continuous assessment shall comprise tests, assignments and term papers.

The candidate shall be required to take at least 12 course units, 9 of which shall be core and at least three electives. The core must be taken before electives.

The candidate in addition shall undertake mandatory research project equivalent to six course units.

The course shall be covered in a minimum of five semesters and a maximum of ten semesters of 15 weeks each.

The candidate shall be required to take a minimum of four course units in the first semester, four in the second semester and at least four in the third semester.

Only those achieving core competencies will proceed to the third semester, for specialization courses.

Over the fourth and fifth semesters, after successful completion of coursework, the student shall undertake a research project mentored by subject specialists from the University and where desirable, other collaborating universities within the region. .

The common examination regulations of the University of Nairobi and of the Faculty of Agriculture will apply.

Written Examinations

A candidate shall not be allowed to sit any examination unless he or she has attended at least two thirds of the total lecture hours.

Each unit shall be examined by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester during which the course is offered.

The end of semester examination shall constitute 70% of the total marks in each course unit while the continuous assessment including term paper shall constitute 30%.

The pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any unit may be allowed to re-sit or retake the failed units up to 2 times

The maximum score for a re-sit examination shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in the third attempt, it being a re-sit or retake or has failed to complete the prescribed courses within the prescribed time, shall be discontinued

Research Project

The research project shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the university postgraduate studies.

Each candidate shall present, two weeks before the end of the final semester, a report of an approved research project, in any one of the areas of specialization in Agricultural and Applied Economics for examination. The report shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in Agricultural and Applied Economics. The report shall constitute 70% of the marks.

The candidate shall in addition to 6.2.2 above, present the project report orally in form of a seminar before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall constitute 30% of the marks.

The pass mark shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the project shall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the project report.

A candidate who fails in the third attempt of a resubmission of the project shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate, be discontinued.

The Master of Science programme in Agricultural and Applied Economics involves collaboration of sixteen universities in the Eastern, Central and Southern Africa region. Its underlying premise is the need for highly trained local professionals to address the challenges posed by far reaching changes in global and local economies, technology, and marketing, by adapting their advanced knowledge and methods to the particular institutional, political and economic circumstances of the region. The growing economies need professionals whose skills will range from analysing the implications of changes in trade and macroeconomic policy to studying the performance of local markets for agricultural products, services and inputs. Others will be working with scientists to determine the economic as well as technical feasibility of new products and processes.

The principal objectives of the programme are therefore to:

Expose students to current issues in agricultural and applied economics.

Equip professionals with knowledge and skills essential for transforming the agro-food sectors and rural economies of the region in an environmentally sustainable fashion.

The final award shall be Master of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. In order to qualify for the award of degree of Masters of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management, a candidate must have registered for, attended lectures, sat the examinations and passed in all course units taken throughout the period of study. The grades for the courses shall appear in the transcript. The grading of the courses shall be as follows:

Theoretical foundations of agricultural information and communications management; overview of current development goals and trends in agriculture in Africa; drivers of investment in agriculture; innovation systems, agricultural data, information and knowledge; systems and systems approach to solving problems, current agricultural information and knowledge systems, products, services and processes; people, processes and technologies that constitute agricultural information and knowledge systems; management of agricultural information and knowledge; communication theory, role of agricultural communication, agricultural communication processes, and products; diffusion theory, communication strategies and networks; strategic frameworks for communication of agricultural information; management of agricultural communications; emerging ICT, tools, and techniques for the management of agricultural information and communications; target groups for agricultural information at international, national and organizational levels; trends in information and communication technology; impact of agricultural information on development; national, regional and international information resources, networks and policies; managing agricultural information systems; ethical and social considerations in agricultural information systems and projects.

AIC 603: Management of Agricultural Information and Communication

Basic principles, concepts, theories, and techniques of management as they apply in the information and communication management; agricultural information and communication resources and services; the concepts and processes of information resource management (IRM); Information resources planning; Information users and analysts of their requirements: Implementation of agricultural information and communication products, services, and systems; communication concepts and theory; managing agricultural communication processes; development and management of communication products and services; management issues in digital content management: Acquiring and managing new information technologies; Managing AICM projects; National and international issues relating to information access, such as standards relating to electronic storage and retrieval of electronic documents (digital archiving); Ethical, social, and economic issues in the management of information and communication resources and services

The MSc in AICM shall be offered under two modules; full-time, part-time and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular university programme. The MSc Programme consists of two options with a total of 20 course units. For the thesis option, there are 10 core, 2 electives and 8 course units equivalent of thesis. For the research dissertation, there are 10 core, 2 electives, 4 specialization and 4 course units equivalent of dissertation. Each course unit is equivalent to 45 hours and the semester is 15 weeks.

The MSc full-time and part-time programme

The programme will take a minimum duration of four semesters and a maximum duration of 12 semesters. A student is required to do a minimum of 2 course units and a maximum of 5 course units per semester. The programme includes two sets of remedial coursework because of the wide background of candidates: one for non-ICT and the other for non-agriculture candidates.

Thesis or non-thesis (research dissertation) options will be offered. Students who lack agricultural or ICT background shall be required to take remedial courses. The minimum number of remedial courses to be taken by each student is 2 and the maximum is 4 courses.

Students are expected to enroll for remedial courses before the main units in the MSc in AICM programme. They can also enroll for the remedial courses concurrently with the MSc course units depending on regulations and practices of the university.

The first year is devoted to course work. The second year is devoted to both coursework and thesis or research dissertation.

The MSc through ODL

The course structure and requirement for MSc through ODL remain the same as under full-time/part-time. However, the mode of delivery is as follows:

Use of various media and largely home based

Other modes of delivery:-

a)Written self instructional study modules issued at the registration time

Study books

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Booklet and/ or pamphlets

b) Face to face introductory Tutorial

c) Mediated technical learning materials

Audio cassettes

E-learning materials

Video clips

d) Limited face to face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

e)Support study centres at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at School of Computing and Informatics, Agricultural Economics, Computer Laboratory, Biometry Laboratory at CAVS and other centres such as the Library

Access to information through school of Journalism

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and agricultural research institutions.

f)Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery

Study, reading and computer skills

Time management and techniques in handling assignments

Mentorship, Wo-mentoring, guidance and counseling

Emphasis is on satellite centres that serve as a link between the university and the student in the following manner:

Request for exemption shall be made in writing, on admission to the Academic Registrar, University of Nairobi and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, including the syllabus for the relevant courses.

The University of Nairobi reserves the right to administer an appropriate test in order to determine whether the exemption should be granted.

Application for exemptions shall be considered only after the exemption fee has been paid as may be prescribed.

Applicants may be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses provided that these are from institutions recognized by the senate.

The common examination regulations of the University of Nairobi and of the faculty of Agriculture will apply.

Written Examinations

Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

A candidate shall not be allowed to sit any examination unless he or she has attended at least two-thirds of the total lecture hours.

Each unit shall be examined by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester during which the course is offered.

The end of semester examination shall constitute 60% of the total marks in each course unit while the continuous assessment including term paper shall constitute 40%.

The pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any unit may be allowed to sit supplementary examinations for the failed units up to 2 times.

A candidate who fails in second supplementary examination or has failed to complete the prescribed courses within the prescribed time, shall be discontinued.

The maximum score for a re-sit examination shall be 50%.

Thesis and Research Dissertation

Students will proceed to the second year of study (research thesis) only after passing all course units offered during the first year of study.

Thesis option students will submit the thesis, which will be examined through an oral defence before an examination board consisting of internal and external examiners in the field.

Students will submit their thesis for assessment at the end of the second year of study.

The research dissertation will be submitted and examined at the end of the second year of study upon the approval of the supervisor and completion of all other degree requirements.

The research dissertation shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the university postgraduate studies. Each candidate shall present, two weeks before the end of the final semester, a report of an approved research dissertation , in any one of the areas of specialization in Agricultural Information and Communication Management for examination.

The dissertation shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. The dissertation shall constitute 70% of the marks. The candidate shall in addition to the above, present the dissertation orally in form of a seminar before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall constitute 30% of the marks. The pass mark shall be 50%. A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the dissertation shall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the dissertation .

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the thesis/dissertation within the prescribed duration and, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, shall be discontinued.

A candidate who has successfully completed 10 core courses and does 2 units of equivalent research project within the prescribed period shall be awarded Postgraduate Diploma.

Agricultural Information and Communication Management Programme at postgraduate level was strongly supported by the findings of a training needs assessment undertaken by Regional Agricultural Information Network (RAIN) in 2005. The National stakeholders workshop on the AICM postgraduate programmes (MSc and PGD) adopted the following findings by RAIN/ASARECA and the Regional Taskforce:

It was established that agricultural professionals of all cadres in the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA) region with Agricultural Information and Communication Management (AICM) skills are few or lacking. More specifically, agricultural researchers, educators and technologists in National Agricultural Research Systems, universities and extension services lack skills that can make them self-sufficient in meeting basic information needs to generate and disseminate technology.

Agricultural research results are not effectively transmitted to the international research community. As a result, African concerns do not drive the international research agenda. The rate of scientific journals published in Africa, therefore, is quite low and insignificant in the world research arena. There is also a scarcity of trained professional scientific editors capable of assisting scientists in the region to get their research findings published in international peer refereed journals.

Existing university programmes do not have adequate Information and Communication Technology/ Information and Communication Management (ICT/ICM) content, explaining the low ICT/ICM competency among graduates.

There is a growing recognition that ICM is an emerging profession in development.

The programme targets graduates from a variety of backgrounds and specialization including agricultural and related sciences, the biological sciences, information and communication science, information technology and social sciences. AICM also provides for admission of mid career candidates with relevant experience in their relevant areas of specialization.

The aim of AICM program is to enhance the competency of professionals in the agricultural field and other development workers in managing and communicating agricultural information for accelerated development and poverty reduction, and to strengthen the capacity of universities to provide high

The common admission regulations governing Masters degree in the University of Nairobi and the Faculty of Agriculture shall be applicable.

The following shall be eligible for admission for the degree in Agricultural Economics.

Holders of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification in Agriculture, Food Science, Range Management or in any other subject are judged relevant from a university recognized by Senate

Holders of Lower Second Class Honours degree in the same discipline as in 2.2 (i) from the University of Nairobi or from another University recognized by the senate but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training since graduation with a Bachelors degree.

Holders of a Pass degree in the same discipline as in 2.2 (i) and a relevant postgraduate diploma from a recognized University or at least five years of field experience and evidence of research publication since graduation.

Background to micro-economics and game-theoretic framework for analyzing economic behaviour; theory of consumer behaviour (focusing on utility and utility maximization, indifference curves, marginal rate of substitution, intermediate and dynamic theories of demand including demand functions, comparative statics, market demand, labour-leisure choice, substitution and income effects of a price change); theory of the firm and production economics (intermediate and dynamic theories of supply and costs, focusing on the concepts of Technology and production functions

The programme lasts for a minimum of four semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters and offered by coursework, examination and thesis. Coursework consists of lecturers, tutorials, practicals, and seminars.

Students are required to take 13 units of course work and a thesis project. A course unit will consist of 45 contact hours while a project will be equivalent to 4 units.

On successful completion of coursework, students devote the rest of the period to research in a given approved subject area and writing of thesis under supervision.

Students will take a minimum of 3 course units per semester of 15 weeks.

A written comprehensive examination in each subject area of the course consisting of a 2-hours paper per course unit equivalent shall be given at the end of each teaching semester of the first year of study. The following is the list of the comprehensive written examination papers to be taken during the first year of the programme:

Year 1 First Semester Examinations :

CODE

COURSE NAME

EXAMINATION

AEC 501

Microeconomics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 503

Macroeconomics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 505

Mathematics for Economists

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 507

Statistics

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 509

Project Planning and Analysis

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 511

Farm Management

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 513

Rural Development & Agricultural Policy

1 x 3 hr paper

Year 1 Second Semester Examinations:

CODE

COURSE NAME

EXAMINATION

AEC 502

Econometrics

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 504

Operations Research

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 508

Agricultural Marketing

1 x 3 hr paper

AEC 510

International Agricultural Trade

1 x 2 hr paper

AEC 512

Development Economics

1 x 3 hr paper

The average mark obtained in the written comprehensive examination shall contribute 70% to the final overall mark in each subject area of the part 1 University Examination, the remaining 30% being made up of the coursework assessment conducted by the Department.

A candidate who fails initially in less than 50% of the written examination papers at the end of the first year of study shall be allowed to take written re-sit (supplementary) examination papers in the failed subjects.

A candidate who fails initially in more than 50% of the written examination papers taken during the first year of study or who fails in any of the written re-sit (supplementary) examination papers shall be discontinued.

The board of examiners for Part I University Examination shall consist of:

At least three internal examiners who have participated in the formal tuition during the first year of study; and

One examiner external to the University.

3.2 Part II University Examination:

The Part II University Examination shall consist of the assessment of the research thesis, based on the project undertaken in the second year of study, which shall be submitted within the time specified in the common regulations for the Masters Degree in all Faculties.

The Board of Examiners for the Part II University Examination shall consist of not less than three Examiners, at least one who shall be an external examiner to the university.

General regulations of the university of Nairobi and the Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.

6.1 Written examinations

Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

Each examination covering a unit of coursework will be two hours while all other coursework examinations will take three hours.

Each examination shall be graded out of 100% of which 70% shall constitute written examinations while the continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30%.

The pass mark in each examination shall be 50%

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times. The candidate shall pay registration and examination fees for the course units to be retaken.

A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the course.

A candidate who fails after repeating the course shall be discontinued.

6.2 Thesis examination

Candidates will conduct a thesis research undertaken after completing the coursework successfully. The thesis shall be submitted within the time specified in the common Regulations for the Masters Degree in all faculties.

The Board of Examiners for the thesis Examination shall consist of not less than three examiners, at least one of whom shall be an external examiner to the University.

A candidate who fails to satisfy the Board of Examiners recommendations shall be discontinued.

Agriculture is the mainstay of Kenyas economy and creating an understanding of how the available resources in the country can be allocated optimally to spur economic growth and development is critical. The Master of Science in Agricultural Economics is intended to equip the students with skills necessary to develop the understanding and apply those skills to contribute towards agricultural development anywhere in the world. The demand for a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics is very high. This is reflected by the large number of applications received whenever the course is advertised for offer and the numerous inquiries received about opportunities available for undertaking a Master degree in the department. Previously, many applicants relied on the availability of University/Government scholarship to take up the training in Master in Agricultural Economics but currently, many potential students have expressed the desire and willingness to take up the masters degree with government or self-sponsorship. This has necessitated adjusting/revising the existing masters programme to reflect the realities of the moment.

The objectives of the Masters in Agricultural Economics is to give a firm grounding in the field of Agricultural Economics and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to:

Understand the nature of agricultural development problems and analyse the problems to be able to offer alternative viable solutions to the problems.

Undertake agricultural policy analysis for relevant policy formulation and to stimulate sectoral and national economic growth and development.

Participate effectively in for a designing and implementing strategy for agricultural development locally, regionally and globally.

Offer advisory and training services to government, farmers and other private sector players in the field of agricultural economics for the improvement in performance in their respective roles, capacities and outputs.

A candidate may be exempted from some units and credits transferred from recognized institutions, subject to the following conditions being fulfilled.

The candidate must have passed the unit at M.Sc. level at a University recognized by Senate and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting documents, through the Dean, Faculty Agriculture and Director of Postgraduate studies.

The course must have covered similar content and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

The applicant shall have paid a non-refundable application fee as shall be determined by the university.

Any approved transfer shall be recorded as 50% in the students academic record.

The department may administer an exemption examination on behalf of the Faculty.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding:

Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.

Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

6.1.1 Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.1.2 All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

6.1.3 A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

6.1.4 Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination.

6.1.5 Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

6.1.6 The pass mark shall be 50%.

6.1.7 The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

6.1.8 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

6.1.9 The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

6.1.10 A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the senate be discontinued.

6.2 Research Project

6.2.1 The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.2.2 Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

6.2.3 A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

6.2.4 A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

Plant breeding has for a long term been focussed on developing types better suited for satisfying agricultural needs for food and nutrition, and even for clothing, fuel, drugs and aesthetically pleasing ornamentals. Improved materials have led to increased yields, better varieties for new agricultural areas, better agronomic and horticultural characteristics, varieties resistant to heat cold, or drought and improved quality of agricultural products. Much has been achieved through classical breeding made possible by the application of Mendelian and statistical genetics. Genetic improvement has taken on a complex dimension of the interrelationships of genes, crops and the environment and/or issues of genetic resources ownership, access and equity. Biotechnology that makes it possible for rapid genetic manipulation brings with it concerns of the intellectual property. All these have changed the face of plant breeding with implications on global trade, third world poverty and food security.

The dynamism must urgently be captured by applying strategic capacity building for the benefit of agricultural development of the country. In light of the above, the programme is thus tailored to remain versatile to the changing times. It is also made more flexible and versatile to allow any course to be taken in an occasional mode or a carry-over on its own as a unit (or its fraction) toward the prescribed parts of the programme. Two specializations (one in crop improvement and the other in genomic studies ) do broaden the programme horizons as options students may wish to take relative to the prevailing job market opportunities and the emerging advances in the field of plant breeding and applied genetics. More over, the programme is structured in such a way as to fit more library time, self-study and part-time learning where full time undertaking is not possible.

The objectives of this programme are therefore: -

(i) To produce graduates with ability to identify research imperatives in plant breeding, design and execute plant breeding research projects aimed at solving the problems within a changing agricultural environment. At the same time, the training is to update the plant breeders with the latest developments in the field of crop improvement and genomic studies.

(ii) To train highly skilled plant breeders who will help optimise the countrys ability to attain food security and better nutrition while improving agriculture-based incomes from improved product(s).

A candidate may be exempted from some course units and credit(s) transferred institutions recognised by the Senate, subject to the following conditions:-

Must have passed in similar course units at Masters level.

Request for exemption should be made in writing, on admission, to the Director Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents.

Candidates may be allowed to transfer up to one third of the total number of course units.

2.1 The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.

2.2 The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Horticulture:-

2.2.1 Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

2.2.2 Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

2.2.3 Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.

2.2.4 Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

6.1.1 Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.1.2 All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

6.1.3 A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

6.1.4 Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination

6.1.5 Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

6.1.6 The pass mark shall be 50%.

6.1.7 The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

6.1.8 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

6.1.9 The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

6.1.10 A candidate who successfully completes and passes the prescribed coursework and opts or does not obtain the required pass in a project research shall be awarded a postgraduate diploma that shall specify the particular specialization option for the prescribed course-work.

6.1.11 A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or re-take or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

6.2 Research Project

6.2.1 The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

6.2.2 Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

6.2.3 A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

6.2.4 A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

Over the past two decades, the horticultural industry in Kenya has expanded tremendously becoming a major contributor to the countrys foreign exchange earnings. Large numbers of vegetables, cut flowers and fruits are exported to the European Union, Middle East , and North Africa . The sub-sector utilizes labour intensively and thus is a leading employer.

Recognizing the agro-business potential of this discipline and a self-employment venture, the programme is thus tailored to meet the needs of a wider public clientele than has traditionally been the case. It is made more flexible and versatile to allow any course to be taken in an occasional mode or a carry-over on its own as a unit (or its fraction) toward the prescribed parts of the programme. Two specializations (one in fruit and vegetable production and the other in flower and landscape horticultural production) do broaden the programme horizons as options students may wish to take relative to the prevailing job market opportunities and the emerging advances in the field of horticulture. More over, the programme is structured in such a way as to fit more library time, self-study and part-time learning where full time undertaking is not possible.

The objectives of this programme are therefore:-

(i) To produce graduates with ability to identify research problems, design and execute research projects aimed at solving the problems within a changing agricultural environment. At the same time, the training is to update the horticulturalists with the latest developments in the field of fruit and vegetable and/or flower and landscape horticulture production .

(ii) To train highly skilled horticulturalists in fruit and vegetable and/or flower and landscape horticulture production to help optimise the countrys ability to attain food security and better nutrition while improving agriculture-based incomes from horticultural production.

The common regulations governing Masters Degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Animal Science, or an equivalent qualification form an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in (2.2) above, but with at least two years relevant research work experience evidenced by publications, or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in (2.2) above or an equivalent qualification from an institution from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with a pass plus a post-graduate diploma in Rangeland Resource Management may be considered.

Each course shall be examined separately by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester in which the course is offered.

The written examinations shall constitute 70% while continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30% of the final mark.

The pass mark for each paper shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners, and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit the failed paper twice.

The pass mark obtained after a re-sit examination shall be recorded as 50%.

A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or retake examination or fails to complete the programme within the prescribed period shall, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate, be discontinued.

The Range Graduate Seminar course shall be examined by oral presentations of prepared papers on topical range management issues and shall have a pass mark of 50%.

Project and Dissertation

The research project shall be examined by written dissertation and oral presentation.

A candidate who fails in the research project shall be allowed two re-submissions; and shall be discontinued after a fail in the second re-submission.

The research project shall be agreed upon between the candidate and the departmental academic supervisors and shall be conducted after the candidate has passed all examinations in the prescribed courses. The research project shall be allocated a maximum of one semester.

Each candidate shall be required to present two seminars on the research project; one on completion of the research proposal preparation and the other upon completion of the said research.

Skilled manpower trained at the post-graduate level in rangeland resource management is limited in most African countries. The majority of the rangeland resource managers in the region have been trained abroad where training is not appropriate for the African set up where the mode of production is largely labour-intensive, low capital subsistence pastoralism. Trained skilled manpower is expected to act as a catalyst for enhancing the productivity and human support capacity for pastoral systems in the region. The objectives of the programme are to equip trainees with relevant skills to enable them participate in the rehabilitation, rational management and efficient utilization and conservation of arid and semi-arid land resources.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall be applicable. The following shall be eligible for admission to the Master of Science in Agricultural Resource Management:

A holder of Bachelor of Science degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours or equivalent in Agricultural Science, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Forestry and other relevant disciplines from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institutions recognized by Senate.

A holder of a Bachelors degree, of Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate or with at least two years relevant experience, demonstrated through research and publications.

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate, and at least two years of relevant work experience.

The programme shall be completed in a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters, each semester consisting of 15 teaching weeks.

The six core courses shall all be taken in the first semester or equivalent before specializing in the major and elective courses. Each candidate shall be required to specialize in only one of the five major areas and take all the four courses in that major and two elective courses during the second and third semesters of study or equivalent. For each candidate, all the courses in the remaining four major areas shall constitute elective courses.

The minimum number of courses taken per semester shall be three and a maximum of six.

All the courses shall each be of 45 hours duration.

Each candidate shall be required to undertake a research project leading to writing of a project report.

The research theme shall be within the area of specialization and will be agreed upon between the candidate and the Faculty academic supervisors. The project research and report preparation shall be allowed a duration of two semesters equivalent to ten course units.

Each candidate shall be required to present two seminars on the project research, one on completion of the research proposal and the other upon completion of the said research.

The Faculty of Agriculture has been offering training for M.Sc. degree in the specialized areas of Agriculture such as agronomy, horticulture, plant breeding, agricultural economics, animal production, food science and technology, land and water management, plant pathology etc. The qualified persons have played strategic roles in the development of the Agricultural Industry in the region. Agricultural research requires training in specialized areas because enough depth of coverage in agricultural science and its application will have been made to facilitate effective performance by the graduate. There is a growing need in the industry for graduates who take a holistic approach to solving agricultural problems especially in the tropical and subtropical countries. Most individuals, governmental and Non Governmental Organizations, who find it more expensive to hire a multiple of professionals rather than one individual to solve multifaceted agricultural problems. It was for the foregoing reasons that the degree of M.Sc. in Agricultural Resource Management was developed. The program was developed to train specialized Agricultural personnel in the region.

The objectives of the course are:

To use a holistic approach to provide skills needed in agricultural research and solving agricultural problems in the region.

To contribute to development of higher education in all areas of agricultural science and technology.

A candidate may, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval by Senate, be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of the taught course units offered in the programme. Applicants seeking transfer of credits shall:

Send a formal application to the director, Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture seeking transfer of credits. Justification of request and evidence of credentials, which would support such a request, shall be attached to the application;

Application for transfer of credit shall be processed after payment of prescribed fees;

Applicants shall only be allowed to transfer units, which are equivalent to the same level offered in the University of Nairobi.

(a)The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and project.

(b)The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 15 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

(c)Each candidate will be required to take and pass in all the 9 compulsory courses.

(d)A student shall be required to take a minimum of two courses in one semester and a maximum of four.

(e)On successful completion of coursework, each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable project paper. The choice of the project shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

(d)Each course unit shall have a minimum of 45 lecture hours and 15 practicals and shall be covered in one semester.

a)Each course shall be examined by a semester written paper lasting three hours at the end of each semester in which the course is given.

b)The written examinations shall account for 70% and coursework assessment for 30% of the final mark.

c)The pass mark for each paper shall be 50 %

d)A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, and approvalby the senate be allowed to take up to two resits or retakes in failed papers the next time they are offered after paying appropriate fee.

e)A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the programme in the prescribed duration of 15 semesters shall be discontinued.

f)The mark for a resit paper shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate

The course in plant pathology aims at training and equipping technical personnel in all matters pertaining to plant disease and their management. Issues on crop protection play a key role in agriculture and in the horticultural industry which is now the fastest growing industry in Kenya.

In depth studies on causes of plant diseases, factors that influence plant epidemics and effective management of the diseases will be taught. Training on pesticide efficacy and effects on the environment in relation to risks and proper usage of the chemicals will be given. Host-pathogen relationships, plant disease resistance and biotechnology aspects including biosafety aspects on transgenics and living modified organisms (LMO) will be addressed. The candidate will be taught research methodologies and will be equipped with the necessary tools, for undertaking research. The training will produce competent personnel capable of handling all issues relating to plant diseases and their management and capable of making enlightened decisions in the relevant field.

Objectives of the program are to:

a)Train qualified personnel in the field of plant pathology who will be competent in identifying and managing plant diseases using environmentally safe procedures.

b)Equip the candidates with the necessary tools to undertake research in all fields of plant pathology.

Applicants may apply for credit transfer for similar courses taken in other institutions approved by the senate provided no applicant will be allowed to transfer more than 1/3 of the prescribed courses. Such applications may be made on payment of prescribed fees.

(a)The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and project.

(b)The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 15 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

(c)Each candidate will be required to take and pass in all the 9 compulsory courses.

(d)A student shall be required to take a minimum of two courses in one semester and a maximum of four.

(e)On successful completion of coursework, each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable project paper. The choice of the project shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

(d)Each course unit shall have a minimum of 45 lecture hours and 15 practicals and shall be covered in one semester.

a)Each course shall be examined by a semester written paper lasting three hours at the end of each semester in which the course is given.

b)The written examinations shall account for 70% and coursework assessment for 30% of the final mark.

c)The pass mark for each paper shall be 50 %

d)A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, and approvalby the senate be allowed to take up to two resits or retakes in failed papers the next time they are offered after paying appropriate fee.

e)A candidate who fails in the second resit or retake or fails to complete the programme in the prescribed duration of 15 semesters shall be discontinued.

f)The mark for a resit paper shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate

The course in plant pathology aims at training and equipping technical personnel in all matters pertaining to plant disease and their management. Issues on crop protection play a key role in agriculture and in the horticultural industry which is now the fastest growing industry in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Kenya.

In depth studies on causes of plant diseases, factors that influence plant epidemics and effective management of the diseases will be taught. Training on pesticide efficacy and effects on the environment in relation to risks and proper usage of the chemicals will be given. Host-pathogen relationships, plant disease resistance and biotechnology aspects including biosafety aspects on transgenics and living modified organisms (LMO) will be addressed. The candidate will be taught research methodologies and will be equipped with the necessary tools, for undertaking research. The training will produce competent personnel capable of handling all issues relating to plant diseases and their management and capable of making enlightened decisions in the relevant field.

Objectives of the program are to:

a)Train qualified personnel in the field of plant pathology who will be competent in identifying and managing plant diseases using environmentally safe procedures.

b)Equip the candidates with the necessary tools to undertake research in all fields of plant pathology.

The degree programme shall consist of 7 core courses, 4 specialization courses and a research project.

The minimum duration of the course shall be four semesters and the maximum shall be 12 semesters (extended duration). Each semester shall consist of 15 weeks or equivalent. For extended duration, the minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be three.

A course unit shall be defined as consisting of 45 contact hours of lectures, tutorials, practicals or demonstrations and seminars, separately taken or in combination.

The core courses shall be taken in the first semester or equivalent while the specialization courses shall be taken during the second and third semesters of study or equivalent. Each student shall be required to major in only one of the two speciality areas.

Candidates shall be required to take 11 level-600 courses, which must include all the six compulsory courses plus four specialization (option) courses. The project report shall be separate.

The minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be 3 and the maximum 6.

The project shall be regarded as equivalent to ten course units.

Candidates shall be required to participate in Research Methods and Graduate Seminars as an examinable course unit

The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Agronomy:

Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 1 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.
Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 1 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination

Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

The pass mark shall be 50%.

The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

A candidate who successfully completes and passes the prescribed coursework and opts or does not obtain the required pass in a project research shall be awarded a postgraduate diploma that shall specify the particular specialization option for the prescribed course-work.

A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or re-take or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

Research Project

The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties shall apply.

The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an upper second class honours degree or its equivalent qualification in BSc. Food Science, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences or Medical Sciences from University of Nairobi, or equivalent qualification from any other Institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of at least a Lower Second Class honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.2 (i) from the University of Nairobi or from another Institution recognized by the Senate, but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

Pass degree with at least five years of experience and must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

The oral presentation of the project shall constitute 30% of the total mark, while the written dissertation shall constitute 70%.

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times.

A pass obtained by resitting an examination shall be recorded as 50%.

A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the year.

A candidate who fails in the oral presentation of the project or in the written report shall be allowed to resit or resubmit either of the two up to a maximum of two times depending on the component failed.

A Candidate who fails in the second resit of the oral examination or resubmission of the written dissertation or exceeds the prescribed time duration shall be discontinued

Advanced training and research in nutrition is necessary in order to address upcoming challenges and emerging issues in nutrition and health. There is an increasing demand on training in applied nutrition over the years. The M.Sc. programme is designed to help the trainees understand malnutrition and its consequences and methods of alleviating nutritional problems. The programme will, therefore, build capacity for the improvement of nutritional policy making in Kenya and other developing countries in African and other regions. The programme will offer practical training using appropriate data collected in Kenya and other African countries.

The objectives of the course are to:

Provide students with abilities to assess community nutritional problems from a multi-disciplinary point of view, while applying information technology in suggesting/working out realistic and feasible intervention measures.

Provide students with abilities to implement investigations in the field of applied nutrition and analyze, interpret and disseminate findings to the relevant stakeholders.

Provide students with abilities to effectively use relevant nutrition tools and information to advocate for nutrition actions and influence policies.

A student may be exempted from some courses and credits transferred from Institutions recognized by Senate.

The candidate must have passed in similar course units at Masters level or equivalent and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting document, through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and to the Director of Board of Postgraduate studies

The courses must have similar contents and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

The applicant shall pay a non-refundable exemption application fee as determined by the University.

The applicant cannot transfer more than one third of the course units.

The Department of Food Science and Technology offers a Master of Science Programme in Food Science and Technology with option in either Food Science or Food Technology.The Programme consists of a year of coursework followed by a year of individual research leading to a thesis

The common regulations governing Masters programmes in all faculties, institutes and schools shall apply.

Applications will be considered from graduates in any field and professionals in mid-career, provided they satisfy prerequisites considered necessary to succeed in a rigorous program of study and research.

The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification in Agriculture, Food Science, and Range Management or in any other subject area judged relevant from a University recognized by Senate.

Holders of Lower Second Class Honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.3.1 from the University of Nairobi or from another University recognized by Senate, with at least two years relevant research experience, with supporting publications.

Holders of a Pass degree in the same disciplines as in 2.3.1 and a relevant postgraduate diploma from a recognized University or at least five years of field experience and evidence of research publication since graduation.

Holders of equivalent qualifications from other Universities recognized by the University of Nairobi senate.

Review of Concepts of Consumer Behaviour; Utility Maximization; Individual Consumer and Market Demand; Elasticity of Demand Functions; Income and Substitution Effects; Theory of Revealed Preference and applications; Theory of the Firm ; The Problem of Choice in Situations Involving Risk; Multiperiod Consumption; Consumption Efficiency and Gains from Exchange ; Short and Long Run Market Analysis.

AEC 603: Mathematics for Economists

Application of Sets, Functions and Linear Algebra in Economics; Application of Differential and Integral Calculus in Economics; Application of Differential and Difference Equations; Elements of Linear and Non-Linear Programming; Optimization and Dynamic Analysis

Theoretical Foundations for Understanding Issues in Agricultural and Applied Economics; Topical Issues and Emerging Challenges at the Frontiers of Agricultural and Rural Development; Developing Special Skills for Understanding and Appraising Scholarly Writings and Policy Documents.

AEC 602: Production Economics

Review/Overview conditions for profit maximization; Representing Technology in One and Two-Input Case; Cost, Profit, and Supply Functions of the Firm; Cost Minimization and Profit Maximization in the Two-Input Case; Returns to Size and Returns to Scale; Technical Efficiency and Technology Adoption; Using the Profit Function to Estimate Supply and Factor Demand; Linear Programming (LP) and the Theory of Production; Risk and Uncertainty in Production; Household Production Model of Smallholder Agriculture.

AEC 604: Macroeconomics

Review of Macroeconomics: Comparative Statics and Keynesian theory; IS-LM Model, Extensions, and Microeconomic Foundations of Macroeconomics, Consumption and Savings Theory; Investment Theories and Applications in Agriculture; Business Cycle Theories and Applications; Open Macroeconomic Theories; Growth Models and Social Accounting Matrix; The Labour Market, Inflation, and Unemployment.

AEC 606: Econometrics

Introduction to Econometrics; Problems of Measurement, specification, estimation and their Solutions; Qualitative independent and Limited Dependent Variable Models; Simultaneous Equations Models; Introduction to Time Series Analysis; Analysis of Panel Data.

A candidate may be exempted up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses, provided that these are from institutions recognized by the Senate of the University of Nairobi .

Applicants seeking course exemptions shall send a formal application to the Director, Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture which should include justification of request, and attach evidence of relevant credentials in support of the request. The application shall be processed only after payment of the prescribed fees.

Applicants will only be exempted from a course offered at a level which is equivalent to what is offered by the University of Nairobi .

Elective Courses : Students shall select their preferred specialization, take the foundation course for the cluster (*), and at least two electives under the cluster. Students taking Agribusiness Management specialization will have the foundation course and the two compulsory courses (**), and could opt for an additional elective under the cluster.

The course consists of coursework, continuous assessment, written examination and a research project.

The continuous assessment shall comprise tests, assignments and term papers.

The candidate shall be required to take at least 12 course units, 9 of which shall be core and at least three electives. The core must be taken before electives.

The candidate in addition shall undertake mandatory research project equivalent to six course units.

The course shall be covered in a minimum of five semesters and a maximum of ten semesters of 15 weeks each.

The candidate shall be required to take a minimum of four course units in the first semester, four in the second semester and at least four in the third semester.

Only those achieving core competencies will proceed to the third semester, for specialization courses.

Over the fourth and fifth semesters, after successful completion of coursework, the student shall undertake a research project mentored by subject specialists from the University and where desirable, other collaborating universities within the region. .

The common examination regulations of the University of Nairobi and of the Faculty of Agriculture will apply.

Written Examinations

A candidate shall not be allowed to sit any examination unless he or she has attended at least two thirds of the total lecture hours.

Each unit shall be examined by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester during which the course is offered.

The end of semester examination shall constitute 70% of the total marks in each course unit while the continuous assessment including term paper shall constitute 30%.

The pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any unit may be allowed to re-sit or retake the failed units up to 2 times

The maximum score for a re-sit examination shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in the third attempt, it being a re-sit or retake or has failed to complete the prescribed courses within the prescribed time, shall be discontinued

Research Project

The research project shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the university postgraduate studies.

Each candidate shall present, two weeks before the end of the final semester, a report of an approved research project, in any one of the areas of specialization in Agricultural and Applied Economics for examination. The report shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in Agricultural and Applied Economics. The report shall constitute 70% of the marks.

The candidate shall in addition to 6.2.2 above, present the project report orally in form of a seminar before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall constitute 30% of the marks.

The pass mark shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the project shall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the project report.

A candidate who fails in the third attempt of a resubmission of the project shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate, be discontinued.

The Master of Science programme in Agricultural and Applied Economics involves collaboration of sixteen universities in the Eastern, Central and Southern Africa region. Its underlying premise is the need for highly trained local professionals to address the challenges posed by far reaching changes in global and local economies, technology, and marketing, by adapting their advanced knowledge and methods to the particular institutional, political and economic circumstances of the region. The growing economies need professionals whose skills will range from analysing the implications of changes in trade and macroeconomic policy to studying the performance of local markets for agricultural products, services and inputs. Others will be working with scientists to determine the economic as well as technical feasibility of new products and processes.

The principal objectives of the programme are therefore to:

Expose students to current issues in agricultural and applied economics.

Equip professionals with knowledge and skills essential for transforming the agro-food sectors and rural economies of the region in an environmentally sustainable fashion.

The final award shall be Master of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. In order to qualify for the award of degree of Masters of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management, a candidate must have registered for, attended lectures, sat the examinations and passed in all course units taken throughout the period of study. The grades for the courses shall appear in the transcript. The grading of the courses shall be as follows:

Theoretical foundations of agricultural information and communications management; overview of current development goals and trends in agriculture in Africa; drivers of investment in agriculture; innovation systems, agricultural data, information and knowledge; systems and systems approach to solving problems, current agricultural information and knowledge systems, products, services and processes; people, processes and technologies that constitute agricultural information and knowledge systems; management of agricultural information and knowledge; communication theory, role of agricultural communication, agricultural communication processes, and products; diffusion theory, communication strategies and networks; strategic frameworks for communication of agricultural information; management of agricultural communications; emerging ICT, tools, and techniques for the management of agricultural information and communications; target groups for agricultural information at international, national and organizational levels; trends in information and communication technology; impact of agricultural information on development; national, regional and international information resources, networks and policies; managing agricultural information systems; ethical and social considerations in agricultural information systems and projects.

AIC 603: Management of Agricultural Information and Communication

Basic principles, concepts, theories, and techniques of management as they apply in the information and communication management; agricultural information and communication resources and services; the concepts and processes of information resource management (IRM); Information resources planning; Information users and analysts of their requirements: Implementation of agricultural information and communication products, services, and systems; communication concepts and theory; managing agricultural communication processes; development and management of communication products and services; management issues in digital content management: Acquiring and managing new information technologies; Managing AICM projects; National and international issues relating to information access, such as standards relating to electronic storage and retrieval of electronic documents (digital archiving); Ethical, social, and economic issues in the management of information and communication resources and services

The MSc in AICM shall be offered under two modules; full-time, part-time and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular university programme. The MSc Programme consists of two options with a total of 20 course units. For the thesis option, there are 10 core, 2 electives and 8 course units equivalent of thesis. For the research dissertation, there are 10 core, 2 electives, 4 specialization and 4 course units equivalent of dissertation. Each course unit is equivalent to 45 hours and the semester is 15 weeks.

The MSc full-time and part-time programme

The programme will take a minimum duration of four semesters and a maximum duration of 12 semesters. A student is required to do a minimum of 2 course units and a maximum of 5 course units per semester. The programme includes two sets of remedial coursework because of the wide background of candidates: one for non-ICT and the other for non-agriculture candidates.

Thesis or non-thesis (research dissertation) options will be offered. Students who lack agricultural or ICT background shall be required to take remedial courses. The minimum number of remedial courses to be taken by each student is 2 and the maximum is 4 courses.

Students are expected to enroll for remedial courses before the main units in the MSc in AICM programme. They can also enroll for the remedial courses concurrently with the MSc course units depending on regulations and practices of the university.

The first year is devoted to course work. The second year is devoted to both coursework and thesis or research dissertation.

The MSc through ODL

The course structure and requirement for MSc through ODL remain the same as under full-time/part-time. However, the mode of delivery is as follows:

Use of various media and largely home based

Other modes of delivery:-

a)Written self instructional study modules issued at the registration time

Study books

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Booklet and/ or pamphlets

b) Face to face introductory Tutorial

c) Mediated technical learning materials

Audio cassettes

E-learning materials

Video clips

d) Limited face to face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

e)Support study centres at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at School of Computing and Informatics, Agricultural Economics, Computer Laboratory, Biometry Laboratory at CAVS and other centres such as the Library

Access to information through school of Journalism

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and agricultural research institutions.

f)Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery

Study, reading and computer skills

Time management and techniques in handling assignments

Mentorship, Wo-mentoring, guidance and counseling

Emphasis is on satellite centres that serve as a link between the university and the student in the following manner:

Request for exemption shall be made in writing, on admission to the Academic Registrar, University of Nairobi and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, including the syllabus for the relevant courses.

The University of Nairobi reserves the right to administer an appropriate test in order to determine whether the exemption should be granted.

Application for exemptions shall be considered only after the exemption fee has been paid as may be prescribed.

Applicants may be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses provided that these are from institutions recognized by the senate.

The common examination regulations of the University of Nairobi and of the faculty of Agriculture will apply.

Written Examinations

Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

A candidate shall not be allowed to sit any examination unless he or she has attended at least two-thirds of the total lecture hours.

Each unit shall be examined by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester during which the course is offered.

The end of semester examination shall constitute 60% of the total marks in each course unit while the continuous assessment including term paper shall constitute 40%.

The pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any unit may be allowed to sit supplementary examinations for the failed units up to 2 times.

A candidate who fails in second supplementary examination or has failed to complete the prescribed courses within the prescribed time, shall be discontinued.

The maximum score for a re-sit examination shall be 50%.

Thesis and Research Dissertation

Students will proceed to the second year of study (research thesis) only after passing all course units offered during the first year of study.

Thesis option students will submit the thesis, which will be examined through an oral defence before an examination board consisting of internal and external examiners in the field.

Students will submit their thesis for assessment at the end of the second year of study.

The research dissertation will be submitted and examined at the end of the second year of study upon the approval of the supervisor and completion of all other degree requirements.

The research dissertation shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the university postgraduate studies. Each candidate shall present, two weeks before the end of the final semester, a report of an approved research dissertation , in any one of the areas of specialization in Agricultural Information and Communication Management for examination.

The dissertation shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. The dissertation shall constitute 70% of the marks. The candidate shall in addition to the above, present the dissertation orally in form of a seminar before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall constitute 30% of the marks. The pass mark shall be 50%. A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the dissertation shall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the dissertation .

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the thesis/dissertation within the prescribed duration and, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, shall be discontinued.

A candidate who has successfully completed 10 core courses and does 2 units of equivalent research project within the prescribed period shall be awarded Postgraduate Diploma.

Agricultural Information and Communication Management Programme at postgraduate level was strongly supported by the findings of a training needs assessment undertaken by Regional Agricultural Information Network (RAIN) in 2005. The National stakeholders workshop on the AICM postgraduate programmes (MSc and PGD) adopted the following findings by RAIN/ASARECA and the Regional Taskforce:

It was established that agricultural professionals of all cadres in the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA) region with Agricultural Information and Communication Management (AICM) skills are few or lacking. More specifically, agricultural researchers, educators and technologists in National Agricultural Research Systems, universities and extension services lack skills that can make them self-sufficient in meeting basic information needs to generate and disseminate technology.

Agricultural research results are not effectively transmitted to the international research community. As a result, African concerns do not drive the international research agenda. The rate of scientific journals published in Africa, therefore, is quite low and insignificant in the world research arena. There is also a scarcity of trained professional scientific editors capable of assisting scientists in the region to get their research findings published in international peer refereed journals.

Existing university programmes do not have adequate Information and Communication Technology/ Information and Communication Management (ICT/ICM) content, explaining the low ICT/ICM competency among graduates.

There is a growing recognition that ICM is an emerging profession in development.

The programme targets graduates from a variety of backgrounds and specialization including agricultural and related sciences, the biological sciences, information and communication science, information technology and social sciences. AICM also provides for admission of mid career candidates with relevant experience in their relevant areas of specialization.

The aim of AICM program is to enhance the competency of professionals in the agricultural field and other development workers in managing and communicating agricultural information for accelerated development and poverty reduction, and to strengthen the capacity of universities to provide high

The common regulations governing Masters programmes in all faculties, institutes and schools shall apply.

Applications will be considered from graduates in any field and professionals in mid-career, provided they satisfy prerequisites considered necessary to succeed in a rigorous program of study and research.

The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification in Agriculture, Food Science, and Range Management or in any other subject area judged relevant from a University recognized by Senate.

Holders of Lower Second Class Honours degree in the same disciplines as in from the University of Nairobi or from another University recognized by Senate, with at least two years relevant research experience, with supporting publications.

Holders of a Pass degree in the same disciplines as in 2.3.1 and a relevant postgraduate diploma from a recognized University or at least five years of field experience and evidence of research publication since graduation.

Holders of equivalent qualifications from other Universities recognized by the University of Nairobi senate.

Elective Courses: Students shall select their preferred specialization, take the foundation course for the cluster (*), and at least two electives under the cluster. Students taking Agribusiness Management specialization will have the foundation course and the two compulsory courses (**), and could opt for an additional elective under the cluster.

The course consists of coursework, continuous assessment, written examination and a research project.

The continuous assessment shall comprise tests, assignments and term papers.

The candidate shall be required to take at least 12 course units, 9 of which shall be core and at least three electives. The core must be taken before electives.

The candidate in addition shall undertake mandatory research project equivalent to six course units.

The course shall be covered in a minimum of five semesters and a maximum of ten semesters of 15 weeks each.

The candidate shall be required to take a minimum of four course units in the first semester, five in the second semester and at least three in the third semester.

Only those achieving core competencies will proceed to the third semester, for specialization courses.

Over the fourth and fifth semesters, after successful completion of coursework, the student shall undertake a research project mentored by subject specialists from the University and where desirable, other collaborating universities within the region. .

A candidate may be exempted up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses, provided that these are from institutions recognized by the Senate of the University of Nairobi.

Applicants seeking course exemptions shall send a formal application to the Director, Board of Postgraduate Studies through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture which should include justification of request, and attach evidence of relevant credentials in support of the request. The application shall be processed only after payment of the prescribed fees.

Applicants will only be exempted from a course offered at a level which is equivalent to what is offered by the University of Nairobi

The final award shall be Master of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. In order to qualify for the award of degree of Masters of Science in Agricultural Information and Communication Management, a candidate must have registered for, attended lectures, sat the examinations and passed in all course units taken throughout the period of study. The grades for the courses shall appear in the transcript. The grading of the courses shall be as follows:

Theoretical foundations of agricultural information and communications management; overview of current development goals and trends in agriculture in Africa; drivers of investment in agriculture; innovation systems, agricultural data, information and knowledge; systems and systems approach to solving problems, current agricultural information and knowledge systems, products, services and processes; people, processes and technologies that constitute agricultural information and knowledge systems; management of agricultural information and knowledge; communication theory, role of agricultural communication, agricultural communication processes, and products; diffusion theory, communication strategies and networks; strategic frameworks for communication of agricultural information; management of agricultural communications; emerging ICT, tools, and techniques for the management of agricultural information and communications; target groups for agricultural information at international, national and organizational levels; trends in information and communication technology; impact of agricultural information on development; national, regional and international information resources, networks and policies; managing agricultural information systems; ethical and social considerations in agricultural information systems and projects.

AIC 603: Management of Agricultural Information and Communication

Basic principles, concepts, theories, and techniques of management as they apply in the information and communication management; agricultural information and communication resources and services; the concepts and processes of information resource management (IRM); Information resources planning; Information users and analysts of their requirements: Implementation of agricultural information and communication products, services, and systems; communication concepts and theory; managing agricultural communication processes; development and management of communication products and services; management issues in digital content management: Acquiring and managing new information technologies; Managing AICM projects; National and international issues relating to information access, such as standards relating to electronic storage and retrieval of electronic documents (digital archiving); Ethical, social, and economic issues in the management of information and communication resources and services

The MSc in AICM shall be offered under two modules; full-time, part-time and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular university programme. The MSc Programme consists of two options with a total of 20 course units. For the thesis option, there are 10 core, 2 electives and 8 course units equivalent of thesis. For the research dissertation, there are 10 core, 2 electives, 4 specialization and 4 course units equivalent of dissertation. Each course unit is equivalent to 45 hours and the semester is 15 weeks.

The MSc full-time and part-time programme

The programme will take a minimum duration of four semesters and a maximum duration of 12 semesters. A student is required to do a minimum of 2 course units and a maximum of 5 course units per semester. The programme includes two sets of remedial coursework because of the wide background of candidates: one for non-ICT and the other for non-agriculture candidates.

Thesis or non-thesis (research dissertation) options will be offered. Students who lack agricultural or ICT background shall be required to take remedial courses. The minimum number of remedial courses to be taken by each student is 2 and the maximum is 4 courses.

Students are expected to enroll for remedial courses before the main units in the MSc in AICM programme. They can also enroll for the remedial courses concurrently with the MSc course units depending on regulations and practices of the university.

The first year is devoted to course work. The second year is devoted to both coursework and thesis or research dissertation.

The MSc through ODL

The course structure and requirement for MSc through ODL remain the same as under full-time/part-time. However, the mode of delivery is as follows:

Use of various media and largely home based

Other modes of delivery:-

a)Written self instructional study modules issued at the registration time

Study books

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Booklet and/ or pamphlets

b) Face to face introductory Tutorial

c) Mediated technical learning materials

Audio cassettes

E-learning materials

Video clips

d) Limited face to face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

e)Support study centres at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at School of Computing and Informatics, Agricultural Economics, Computer Laboratory, Biometry Laboratory at CAVS and other centres such as the Library

Access to information through school of Journalism

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and agricultural research institutions.

f)Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery

Study, reading and computer skills

Time management and techniques in handling assignments

Mentorship, Wo-mentoring, guidance and counseling

Emphasis is on satellite centres that serve as a link between the university and the student in the following manner:

Request for exemption shall be made in writing, on admission to the Academic Registrar, University of Nairobi and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, including the syllabus for the relevant courses.

The University of Nairobi reserves the right to administer an appropriate test in order to determine whether the exemption should be granted.

Application for exemptions shall be considered only after the exemption fee has been paid as may be prescribed.

Applicants may be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of the taught courses provided that these are from institutions recognized by the senate.

The common examination regulations of the University of Nairobi and of the faculty of Agriculture will apply.

Written Examinations

Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

A candidate shall not be allowed to sit any examination unless he or she has attended at least two-thirds of the total lecture hours.

Each unit shall be examined by a three-hour written examination at the end of the semester during which the course is offered.

The end of semester examination shall constitute 60% of the total marks in each course unit while the continuous assessment including term paper shall constitute 40%.

The pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

A candidate who fails in any unit may be allowed to sit supplementary examinations for the failed units up to 2 times.

A candidate who fails in second supplementary examination or has failed to complete the prescribed courses within the prescribed time, shall be discontinued.

The maximum score for a re-sit examination shall be 50%.

Thesis and Research Dissertation

Students will proceed to the second year of study (research thesis) only after passing all course units offered during the first year of study.

Thesis option students will submit the thesis, which will be examined through an oral defence before an examination board consisting of internal and external examiners in the field.

Students will submit their thesis for assessment at the end of the second year of study.

The research dissertation will be submitted and examined at the end of the second year of study upon the approval of the supervisor and completion of all other degree requirements.

The research dissertation shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the university postgraduate studies. Each candidate shall present, two weeks before the end of the final semester, a report of an approved research dissertation , in any one of the areas of specialization in Agricultural Information and Communication Management for examination.

The dissertation shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. The dissertation shall constitute 70% of the marks. The candidate shall in addition to the above, present the dissertation orally in form of a seminar before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall constitute 30% of the marks. The pass mark shall be 50%. A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the dissertation shall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the dissertation .

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the thesis/dissertation within the prescribed duration and, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, shall be discontinued.

A candidate who has successfully completed 10 core courses and does 2 units of equivalent research project within the prescribed period shall be awarded Postgraduate Diploma.

A student may be exempted from some courses and credits transferred from Institutions recognized by Senate.

4.1 The candidate must have passed in similar course units at Masters’ level or equivalent and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting document, through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and to the Director of Board of Postgraduate studies

4.2 The courses must have similar contents and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

4.3 The applicant shall pay a non-refundable exemption application fee as determined by the University.

4.4The applicant cannot transfer more than one third of the course units.

2.1 The common regulations for the Masters’ degrees in all faculties shall apply.

2.2 The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an upper second class honours degree or its equivalent qualification in BSc. Food Science, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences or Medical Sciences from University of Nairobi, or equivalent qualification from any other Institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of at least a Lower Second Class honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.2 (1) from the University of Nairobi or from another Institution recognized by the Senate, but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

Pass degree with at least five years of experience and must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

6.1 Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

6.2 Each examination shall take three hours.

6.2 Each examination shall be graded out of 100% in which 70% shall constitute written
examinations while the continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30%.

6.4 The pass mark in each examination shall be 50%.

6.5 The oral presentation of the project shall constitute 30% of the total mark, while the written dissertation shall constitute 70%.

6.6 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times.

6.7 A pass obtained by resitting an examination shall be recorded as 50%.

6.8 A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the year.

6.9 A candidate who fails in the oral presentation of the project or in the written report shall be allowed to resit or resubmit either of the two up to a maximum of two times depending on the component failed.

6.10 A Candidate who fails in the second resit of the oral examination or resubmission of the written dissertation or exceeds the prescribed time duration shall be discontinued.

At the end of the first year, students sit an examination, which consists of four 3-hour papers.

Paper 1 examines courses FST 1, FST 4 and FST 5

Paper 2 examines courses FST 2 and FST 3

Paper 3 examines courses CS 2

Paper 4 examines courses FST 6 or FST 7

The written examination shall account for 70% and the course-work assessment shall account for 30% of the total marks.

The pass mark for each paper is 50%. Candidates must pass all the papers before they can proceed to the second year of the degree programme.

A candidate who fails to reach the pass mark with 40-49% of the total in one paper only may be permitted, at the recommendation of the Board of Examiners and with the approval of the senate, to resit that paper on one occasion only within a period of three months. A candidate who fails in more than one paper or in the supplementary exam shall be discontinued.

The second year’s programme will consist of research leading to the presentation of a thesis to be examined according to the Common Regulations for the Masters Degrees in all Faculties.

A candidate may be exempted from some course units and credit transferred from university or institution recognized by the senate of the University of Nairobi, subject to the following conditions: -

3.1 Credit transfer will only be for course work.

3.2 Must have passed similar course unit at Master's level.

3.3 A candidate may be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of taught units.

3.4 Request for credit transfer should be made in writing on admission through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture to the Director, Board of Postgraduate Studies and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, transcripts and institution/ university catalogue for the relevant course.

3.5 Application for transfer of credit will be processed only after payment of prescribed fees.

The programme shall be offered under three modules; full-time, part-time and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and e-Learning. The programme consists of coursework and research project with a total of 22 course units.

4.1 The full-time and part-time programme

4.1.1 The duration of the course shall be a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters. Each candidate shall take a minimum of 3 course units of 45 hours each per semester.

4.1.2 Each academic year will consist of 2 semesters consisting of 15 weeks each.

4.1.4 The programme shall be by coursework and research project and each candidate will be required to take and pass coursework and research project.

4.1.5 The choice of topic for the research project shall be made in consultation with the student academic advisor(s)/supervisor(s) and the research work shall be undertaken only after successful completion of first year coursework.

4.1.6 All other regulations for Master of Science at the University of Nairobi shall apply.

4.2The Open and Distance learning and e-Learning

The course structure and requirements for programme through Openand Distance learning (ODL) and e-Learningremain the same as under full-time/part-time modules. However, the mode of delivery is as follows: -

4.2.5 Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid-semester and revision periods before examinations.

4.2.6 Support study centres at the University of Nairobi to access information through computers and use of libraries at any university of Nairobi centres.

4.2.7 Orientation: -

i) Orientation in ODL and e-learning delivery

ii) Study, reading and computer skills

iii) Time management and techniques in handling assignments

iv) Mentorship, guidance and counselling.

4.2.8 Emphasis on ODL and e-Learning module will be based on the use of satellite centres that serve as a link between the university and the student in the following manner: - registration, collecting reading materials, results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable, holding meetings.

2.1 The common regulations governing the admission into Masters’ degree programme in the University of Nairobi shall apply.

2.2 Holders of at least upper second class honours BSc. degree or equivalent in natural and biological sciences, engineering and health sciencesor any other related discipline from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of the University of Nairobi.

2.3 Holders of lower second class honours BSc. degree or equivalent in any of the degree programmes specified in 2.2 above with at least 2 years relevant experience or postgraduate diploma from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of University of Nairobi.

2.4 Holders of pass BSc degree in any of the degree programmes specified in 2.2 above with working experience of at least five years or a relevant postgraduate diploma from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of University of Nairobi.

6.1.8 AFS 613 Food Safety and Quality Management Systems II will be assessed by oral presentation and written examination, the oral presentation examination will account for 30% and written report 70%

6.1.9 Pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

6.1.10 A candidate who fails in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, be allowed to take up to two supplementary examinations.

6.1.11 A pass mark obtained after a supplementary examination shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate’s transcript.

6.1.12 A candidate who fails the second supplementary examination or who fails to complete the course units within the prescribed time shall on the recommendation of Faculty Board of Examiners and approval of the senate of the University of Nairobi be discontinued.

6.2 Dissertation Examination

6.2.1. With approval of the supervisor, each candidate will submit a written report of the dissertation for examination.

6.2.2. The dissertation shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the Board of postgraduate studies of the University of Nairobi.

6.2.3. The dissertation shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in the area of study.

6.2.4. The dissertationreport shallbe marked out of 70%.

6.2.5. The candidate shall, in addition to 6.2.4, present the dissertation orally before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall be marked out of 30%.

6.2.6. The pass mark the dissertation shall be 50%.

6.2.7. A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the dissertationshall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the dissertation.

6.2.8. A candidate, who fails to submit dissertation report or fails in the second resubmission of the dissertation, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, shall be discontinued.

A student may be exempted from some courses and credits transferred from Institutions recognized by Senate.

4.1 The candidate must have passed in similar course units at Masters’ level or equivalent and must request for the transfer at admission with official supporting document, through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and to the Director of Board of Postgraduate studies

4.2 The courses must have similar contents and contact hours as the one from which credit transfer is desired. Evidence of course content and contact hours shall be attached to the application.

4.3 The applicant shall pay a non-refundable exemption application fee as determined by the University.

4.4The applicant cannot transfer more than one third of the course units.

2.1 The common regulations for the Masters’ degrees in all faculties shall apply.

2.2 The following shall be eligible for admission:

Holders of at least an upper second class honours degree or its equivalent qualification in BSc. Food Science, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences or Medical Sciences from University of Nairobi, or equivalent qualification from any other Institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of at least a Lower Second Class honours degree in the same disciplines as in 2.2 (1) from the University of Nairobi or from another Institution recognized by the Senate, but must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

Pass degree with at least five years of experience and must show proof of academic advancement either through research and publication or postgraduate training.

6.1 Examination for any given course shall be taken in the semester in which the course has been offered.

6.2 Each examination shall take three hours.

6.2 Each examination shall be graded out of 100% in which 70% shall constitute written
examinations while the continuous assessment tests shall constitute 30%.

6.4 The pass mark in each examination shall be 50%.

6.5 The oral presentation of the project shall constitute 30% of the total mark, while the written dissertation shall constitute 70%.

6.6 A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course may, on recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by Senate be allowed to resit/retake any failed unit on the next scheduled examination up to a maximum of two times.

6.7 A pass obtained by resitting an examination shall be recorded as 50%.

6.8 A candidate who fails in more than two course examinations or fails a supplementary examination shall be recommended to repeat the year.

6.9 A candidate who fails in the oral presentation of the project or in the written report shall be allowed to resit or resubmit either of the two up to a maximum of two times depending on the component failed.

6.10 A Candidate who fails in the second resit of the oral examination or resubmission of the written dissertation or exceeds the prescribed time duration shall be discontinued.

At the end of the first year, students sit an examination, which consists of four 3-hour papers.

Paper 1 examines courses FST 1, FST 4 and FST 5

Paper 2 examines courses FST 2 and FST 3

Paper 3 examines courses CS 2

Paper 4 examines courses FST 6 or FST 7

The written examination shall account for 70% and the course-work assessment shall account for 30% of the total marks.

The pass mark for each paper is 50%. Candidates must pass all the papers before they can proceed to the second year of the degree programme.

A candidate who fails to reach the pass mark with 40-49% of the total in one paper only may be permitted, at the recommendation of the Board of Examiners and with the approval of the senate, to resit that paper on one occasion only within a period of three months. A candidate who fails in more than one paper or in the supplementary exam shall be discontinued.

The second year’s programme will consist of research leading to the presentation of a thesis to be examined according to the Common Regulations for the Masters Degrees in all Faculties.

A candidate may be exempted from some course units and credit transferred from university or institution recognized by the senate of the University of Nairobi, subject to the following conditions: -

3.1 Credit transfer will only be for course work.

3.2 Must have passed similar course unit at Master's level.

3.3 A candidate may be allowed to transfer up to a maximum of one third of taught units.

3.4 Request for credit transfer should be made in writing on admission through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture to the Director, Board of Postgraduate Studies and must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, transcripts and institution/ university catalogue for the relevant course.

3.5 Application for transfer of credit will be processed only after payment of prescribed fees.

The programme shall be offered under three modules; full-time, part-time and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and e-Learning. The programme consists of coursework and research project with a total of 22 course units.

4.1 The full-time and part-time programme

4.1.1 The duration of the course shall be a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters. Each candidate shall take a minimum of 3 course units of 45 hours each per semester.

4.1.2 Each academic year will consist of 2 semesters consisting of 15 weeks each.

4.1.4 The programme shall be by coursework and research project and each candidate will be required to take and pass coursework and research project.

4.1.5 The choice of topic for the research project shall be made in consultation with the student academic advisor(s)/supervisor(s) and the research work shall be undertaken only after successful completion of first year coursework.

4.1.6 All other regulations for Master of Science at the University of Nairobi shall apply.

4.2The Open and Distance learning and e-Learning

The course structure and requirements for programme through Openand Distance learning (ODL) and e-Learningremain the same as under full-time/part-time modules. However, the mode of delivery is as follows: -

4.2.5 Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid-semester and revision periods before examinations.

4.2.6 Support study centres at the University of Nairobi to access information through computers and use of libraries at any university of Nairobi centres.

4.2.7 Orientation: -

i) Orientation in ODL and e-learning delivery

ii) Study, reading and computer skills

iii) Time management and techniques in handling assignments

iv) Mentorship, guidance and counselling.

4.2.8 Emphasis on ODL and e-Learning module will be based on the use of satellite centres that serve as a link between the university and the student in the following manner: - registration, collecting reading materials, results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable, holding meetings.

2.1 The common regulations governing the admission into Masters’ degree programme in the University of Nairobi shall apply.

2.2 Holders of at least upper second class honours BSc. degree or equivalent in natural and biological sciences, engineering and health sciencesor any other related discipline from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of the University of Nairobi.

2.3 Holders of lower second class honours BSc. degree or equivalent in any of the degree programmes specified in 2.2 above with at least 2 years relevant experience or postgraduate diploma from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of University of Nairobi.

2.4 Holders of pass BSc degree in any of the degree programmes specified in 2.2 above with working experience of at least five years or a relevant postgraduate diploma from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate of University of Nairobi.

6.1.8 AFS 613 Food Safety and Quality Management Systems II will be assessed by oral presentation and written examination, the oral presentation examination will account for 30% and written report 70%

6.1.9 Pass mark for each course unit shall be 50%.

6.1.10 A candidate who fails in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, be allowed to take up to two supplementary examinations.

6.1.11 A pass mark obtained after a supplementary examination shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate’s transcript.

6.1.12 A candidate who fails the second supplementary examination or who fails to complete the course units within the prescribed time shall on the recommendation of Faculty Board of Examiners and approval of the senate of the University of Nairobi be discontinued.

6.2 Dissertation Examination

6.2.1. With approval of the supervisor, each candidate will submit a written report of the dissertation for examination.

6.2.2. The dissertation shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the Board of postgraduate studies of the University of Nairobi.

6.2.3. The dissertation shall be expected to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant research skills and their effective application to an investigation of substance and significance in the area of study.

6.2.4. The dissertationreport shallbe marked out of 70%.

6.2.5. The candidate shall, in addition to 6.2.4, present the dissertation orally before a panel of examiners. The oral presentation shall be marked out of 30%.

6.2.6. The pass mark the dissertation shall be 50%.

6.2.7. A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners in the dissertationshall be allowed up to two resubmissions of the dissertation.

6.2.8. A candidate, who fails to submit dissertation report or fails in the second resubmission of the dissertation, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by senate, shall be discontinued.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission to the degree of Master of Science in Management of Agroecosystems and Environment

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Environmental Science, Biological and Natural Sciences or an equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in 2.1 above with at least two years relevant work experience or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in 2.1 above or equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a pass degree in the disciplines specified in 2.1 above plus a post-graduate diploma in any field related to land and water management or at least five years’ work experience.

The programme will be offered as full time, part time and through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes.

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 10 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part time

As in 4.1 above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 10 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open and Distance Learning

The Open and Distance Learning programme will run for a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 semesters of 15 weeks each. The minimum calendar years for completion of the programme shall be 2 years and a maximum of 4 years. The minimum course load per semester will be 2 course units.

The mode of delivery will be through open and distance learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Face to face introductory tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

e-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centers at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi and other resource centres.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and other institutions.

Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery.

Study, reading and computer skills.

Time management and techniques of handling assignments.

Mentorship, guidance and counseling.

Emphasis is on satellite centers that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

As agricultural production shifts more towards intensively controlled systems and with stringent biosafety requirements, training that focus on environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies and practices take centre stage. Training in Master of Science in Management of Agroecosystems and Environment aims to produce graduates with technological and managerial skills on environmental issues related to agriculture to meet these requirements. The programme aims to equip students with high level scientific knowledge and skills required to tackle technical issues on management of agriculture-related aspects in the environment such as ecohydrology, reduction or control of degradation of natural resources, and pollution, and promotion of environmentally acceptable and sustainable production practices in agroecosystems.

The programme take cognizance of world major farming systems and offers a rigorous curriculum that focuses on two major issues: (i) ecological management of agricultural lands (ii) abatement of resource degradation and/or pollution of rural, urban soils and water catchments and recycling/reuse of agro-wastes. The focus of the programme is on principles and practices of agroecology, ecohydrology, agricultural land degradation and understanding the fate and mitigation of pollution, including those processes that influence the impact of pollution in agroecoystems. The aim of the programme is to provide advanced understanding on agroecosystems management so as to enable graduates assess and address environmental problems in agriculture and natural resources management. Potential employers include training and research institutions (universities and colleges), Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, World Agroforestry Centre, non-governmental organizations and private consultancy firms.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission to the degree of Master of Science in Sustainable Soil Resource Management

A holder of Bachelor of Science degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours or equivalent in Agricultural Science, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Forestry and any other relevant disciplines from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institutions recognized by Senate.

A holder of a Bachelor’s degree, of Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate or with at least two years relevant work experience.

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate, and at least two years of relevant work experience

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with at least five years relevant work experience.

The programme will be offered under three modes; full time, part time and distance learning.

Full Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 6 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part Time

As in above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open, Distance and Electronic Learning

The open, distance and electronic learning modes will involve various media of delivery:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

E-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centers at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi and other resource centers.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and other institutions.

Immediately after registration:

Orientation in ODL delivery

Study, reading and computer skills

Time management and techniques of handling assignments

Mentorship, guidance and counselling

Emphasis is on satellite centres that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

Duration and the Course Load of the Programmes

The Open, Distance and eLearning programme will run for a minimum of 4 semesters of 15 weeks each and a maximum of 12 semesters of 15 weeks each. There will be two semesters per academic year, therefore the minimum calendar years for completion of the programme shall be 2 years. The minimum course load per semester will be 7 course units studied through the 15 weeks. Each course unit in the programme has a loading of a minimum of 45 hours. The thesis shall be equivalent to 8 course units.

A candidate may be exempted from some course units and credits transferred from institutions approved by University of Nairobi Senate subject to the following conditions:

Must have passed in similar course units at postgraduate Masters level or equivalent.

The applicant can only transfer up to a maximum of one third of the course units.

The applicant must request for exemption in writing on admission through the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture to the Director of the Board of Postgraduate Studies.

The application for credit transfer must be accompanied by officially endorsed supporting documents, including the institution’s syllabus for the relevant courses and academic transcriptsThe applicant must pay the appropriate exemption fees as determined by the University.

Agricultural intensification in response to population growth and concomitant increase in food demand has placed pressure on soil, water and other natural resources. For agricultural systems and all land uses to be sustainable, a well functioning soil resource is imperative. Judicious use of soil resources, based on its potential is thus essential for an economically viable and ecologically sound agriculture.

The soil resource, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, has been over exploited with resultant severe problems of degradation manifested in accelerated soil erosion and deterioration of soil physical, chemical and biological fertility. These problems needs to be urgently addressed in order to reverse the rate of soil resource deterioration while conserving the environment, both of which are important factors in enhancing the growth and health of plants and animals. Investment in human capital, through training relevant cadre of graduates, is key to sustainable soil resource management. Soils are central to a whole range of extremely important ecosystem services that may soon receive a real market value, particularly in fields that deal with renewable energy, climate change, biodiversity and economic development.

The new programme is being inaugurated to meet the need for training and research in strategies for enhancing productivity and sustainability of soil as a natural resource. This is in addition to addressing the current and emerging challenges in sustainable soil resource and environmental management. To this end, topics that are critically important in realizing sustainable soil resource management have been integrated in the current programme. The design of the programme therefore includes stakeholders’ views that were captured by questionnaires administered to organizations and personnel involved in soil resource management. These include introduction of flexibility in the mode of delivery and incorporation of new topics to address the emerging issues and changing job market requirements.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission to the degree of Master of Science in Agroforestry.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Environmental Science, Biological and Natural Sciences or an equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in 2.1 above with at least two years relevant work experience or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in 2.1 above or equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a pass degree in the disciplines specified in 2.1 above plus a post-graduate diploma in any field related to land and water management or at least five years’ work experience.

The programme will be offered as full time, part time and through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes.

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 10 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part time

As in above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 10 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open and Distance Learning

The Open and Distance Learning programme will run for a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 semesters of 15 weeks each. The minimum calendar years for completion of the programme shall be 2 years and a maximum of 4 years. The minimum course load per semester will be 2 course units.

The mode of delivery will be through open and distance learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Face to face introductory tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

e-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centres at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi and other resource centres.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and other institutions.

Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery.

Study, reading and computer skills.

Time management and techniques of handling assignments.

Mentorship, guidance and counselling.

Emphasis is on satellite centers that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

Throughout the world, agriculture is faced with an immense challenge of how to increase yields to feed a growing population from depleted soils and in the face of climate change. In Africa, twice as much food must be produced by 2050 to avoid widespread starvation amongst a projected population of 1.8 billion. Currently about 300 million people in Africa are food insecure and malnourished. But, food production per capita has been declining and cereals yields have remained stagnant since the 1960s.

One way of reversing the current trend and increasing forest cover where land availability is a challenge is through Agroforestry (AF) practises. Agroforestry is the growing of trees and shrubs alongside crops and/or animals. It is a science-based discipline that focuses on a wide range of multipurpose trees grown on farms and in rural landscapes. The relevance and benefits of AF in the context of the smallholder farming systems both in humid and semi-arid regions in sub-Saharan Africa cannot be overemphasized. These include improving farm productivity, maintaining and/or improving environmental conservation, and creation of various entrepreneurship opportunities. Training at MSc level would produce a relevant cadre of professionals with in-depth knowledge and skills to contribute to finding solutions to food security and environmental degradation.

A survey carried out by the African Network for Agriculture, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Education (ANAFE) in 2005 found that the demand for AF professionals was overwhelming among potential employers such as training institutions (universities and colleges), Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, World Agroforestry Centre, non-governmental organizations and private consultancy firms. It is expected that the demand for cadres trained in AF would continue to rise to meet the needs for research, education, extension and information management. Despite the demand, only very few (30%) universities in sub-Saharan Africa have fulltime MSc programmes in AF. The Faculty of Agriculture in the University of Nairobi has hitherto incorporated AF as a course or topic in existing postgraduate programmes, often leading to thesis research in AF without any substantial coursework in the subject-matter area. Currently in the Faculty, expertise is available to handle various aspects of AF, therefore introduction of MSc AF programme will enhance better utilization of the existing capacity.

The common regulations governing Masters Degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Animal Science, or an equivalent qualification form an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in (2.2) above, but with at least two years relevant research work experience evidenced by publications, or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in (2.2) above or an equivalent qualification from an institution from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with a pass plus a post-graduate diploma in Rangeland Resource Management may be considered.

Students shall be required to take eight core courses and at least three elective courses to make a total of eleven courses.

Students shall be required to take a minimum of two courses and a maximum of five courses in each semester.

The programme shall take a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters of 15 weeks each.

Holders of a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with a pass plus a post-graduate diploma in Rangeland Resource Management may be considered.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in (2.2) above, but with at least two years relevant research work experience evidenced by publications, or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in (2.2) above or an equivalent qualification from an institution from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Animal Science, or an equivalent qualification form an institution recognized by Senate.

The common regulations governing Masters Degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply.

The degree programme shall consist of course work, examinations and a project.

The research project shall be regarded as equivalent to four course units

Skilled manpower trained at the post-graduate level in rangeland resource management is limited in most African countries. The majority of the rangeland resource managers in the region have been trained abroad where training is not appropriate for the African set up where the mode of production is largely labour-intensive, low capital subsistence pastoralism. Trained skilled manpower is expected to act as a catalyst for enhancing the productivity and human support capacity for pastoral systems in the region.

The common regulations governing Masters Degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Environmental Science, Animal Science, Biological and Natural Sciences or an equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in (2.2) above, but with at least two years relevant research work experience evidenced by publications, or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed in (2.2) above or an equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a relevant Bachelor of Science degree with a pass plus a post-graduate diploma in any field related to land and water management may be considered.

The programme will be offered under three modes; full time, part time and Distance Learning (DL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 6 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part time

As above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open, Distance and Electronic Learning

The mode of delivery of the Masters programme will be through Open, Distance and electronic learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Face to face introductory tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

E-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centers at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi and other resource centers.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and other institutions.

Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery

Study, reading and computer skills

Time management and techniques of handling assignments

Mentorship, guidance and counseling

Emphasis is on satellite centers that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

Accelerated land degradation and desertification through soil erosion, depletion of soil fertility, overstocking, deforestation and poor management of water resources are issues of great concern. The Master of Science in Land and Water Management was launched in 1986 to meet the need for training and research in strategies for enhancing productivity and sustainability of land and water resources. However, since its inception, the programme has never been revised and updated to meet the current and emerging challenges in land resources and environmental management.

The revised programme has updated and expanded the content to provide essential new coverage of topics critically important to meet current and emerging challenges in land and water management such as intensification of resource use, carbon sequestration in agroecosystems, global warming and climate change. More specifically, the revised programme offers content that addresses current technical, planning, socio-economic and policy aspects of land and water management. It is expected that the trainees in the revised curriculum will acquire knowledge and skills that will enable them to address the many complex challenges in increasing the productivity and sustainability of the land and water resources.

The common regulations governing Master’s degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an Upper Second Class Honours in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Range Management, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Environmental Science, Biological and Natural Sciences or an equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science degree with Lower Second Class Honours in any of the areas specified in 2.1 above with at least two years relevant work experience or a postgraduate diploma in any of the areas listed iabove or equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a pass degree in the disciplines specified above plus a post-graduate diploma in any field related to soil science or at least five years’ work experience.

The programme will be offered as full time, part time and through Open and Distance and Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes.

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all units.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part time

As in 4.1 above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 10 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open and Distance Learning

The Open, Distance and e-Learning programme will run for a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 semesters of 15 weeks each. The minimum calendar years for completion of the programme shall be 2 years and a maximum of 4 years. The minimum course load per semester will be 2 units.

The mode of delivery will be through open and distance learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Face to face introductory tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

e-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centers at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi and other resource centres.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi and other institutions.

Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODL delivery.

Study, reading and computer skills.

Time management and techniques of handling assignments.

Mentorship, guidance and counseling.

Emphasis is on satellite centers that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

Soil is a key resource in agricultural production, engineering and landscape development, and environmental conservation and management. Accelerated land degradation and desertification through soil erosion, depletion of soil fertility, overstocking, deforestation, poor management of land resources, and climate change are all issues of great concern that are directly or indirectly linked with soil resource exploitation.

The revised Master of Science in Soil Science programme offers comprehensive exposure to the discipline of soil science as currently practiced. It offers definitive concepts, descriptions, fundamental principles and practices, appropriate methodologies and core knowledge from all fields encompassed within the discipline of soil science. These include pedology, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology and biochemistry; and their applications in soil survey and classification, soil fertility and plant nutrition, and soil conservation and water management. The curriculum provides a rigorous, complete and up-to-date presentation of the subject to meet the needs for training and research in soil science for enhancing productivity and sustainability of the soil resources. The revised programme has updated and expanded the content to provide essential new coverage of topics critically important to meet current and emerging challenges in soil science such as intensification of resource use, carbon sequestration in agroecosystems, global warming and climate change.

The common regulations for the Masters degrees in all faculties of the University of Nairobi shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission to the Master of Science in Agricultural Resource Management:

A holder of Bachelor of Science degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours or equivalent in Agricultural Science, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Forestry and other relevant disciplines from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institutions recognized by Senate.

A holder of a Bachelor’s degree, of Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate or with at least two years relevant work experience.

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with a relevant Postgraduate Diploma or other equivalent qualifications from the University of Nairobi or any other equivalent institution recognized by Senate, and at least two years of relevant work experience

A holder of pass degree in any of the degree categories specified in (2.1) above with at least five years relevant work experience.

Application forms may be obtained from the Board of Postgraduate Studies, University of Nairobi Main Campus or may be downloaded from the University of Nairobi website: www.uonbi.ac.ke (“Admissions”). The completed application forms may be returned directly to the Chairman, Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Upper Kabete Campus.

Full - Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 6 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part - Time

As above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

The degree programme shall consist of 7 core courses, 4 specialization courses and a research project.

The minimum duration of the course shall be four semesters and the maximum shall be 12 semesters (extended duration). Each semester shall consist of 15 weeks or equivalent. For extended duration, the minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be three.

A course unit shall be defined as consisting of 45 contact hours of lectures, tutorials, practicals or demonstrations and seminars, separately taken or in combination.

The core courses shall be taken in the first semester or equivalent while the specialization courses shall be taken during the second and third semesters of study or equivalent. Each student shall be required to major in only one of the two speciality areas.

Candidates shall be required to take 11 level-600 courses, which must include all the six compulsory courses plus four specialization (option) courses. The project report shall be separate.

The minimum number of course units taken in a semester shall be 3 and the maximum 6.

The project shall be regarded as equivalent to ten course units.

Candidates shall be required to participate in Research Methods and Graduate Seminars as an examinable course unit

The common regulations for the Masters degrees of the University of Nairobi and Faculty of Agriculture shall apply. The following shall be eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Agronomy:

Holders of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognized by the Senate.

Holders of a Bachelors degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology, Forestry and Education with Botany option from the University of Nairobi or an equivalent qualification from another institution recognised by the Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in 1 with at least three years relevant experience as evidenced by research publications, or relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by the Senate may be considered for admission.
Holders of a pass Bachelors degree in disciplines specified in 1 and a postgraduate diploma in the relevant areas.

Examinations shall be governed by common regulations for Masters degrees in all Faculties and regulations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

All course units taken in a given semester shall normally be examined at the end of that semester.

A candidate for the Master of Science shall be required to complete satisfactorily all such coursework and assignments that may be required for the scheme of study.

Each taught course shall be examined by a three-hour written examination. The Research Methods and Graduate Seminars course shall be examined by continuous assessment and a final written examination

Each course unit shall be graded independently out of 100 marks.

The pass mark shall be 50%.

The complete assessment of a taught course unit shall consist of continuous assessment tests, coursework or practical assignments and a written examination. The contribution towards the unit aggregate score shall be 30% continuous assessment and 70% for written examination.

A candidate who fails to obtain a pass mark in any course unit shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be allowed to re-sit (a failed unit re-examined) or re-take a course unit not more than twice.

The pass mark obtained by re-sitting a course unit shall be recorded as 50% in the candidates transcript while that obtained for the re-take shall be the mark obtained at that sitting.

A candidate who successfully completes and passes the prescribed coursework and opts or does not obtain the required pass in a project research shall be awarded a postgraduate diploma that shall specify the particular specialization option for the prescribed course-work.

A candidate who fails in the second re-sit or re-take or fails to complete the course in the prescribed time shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

Research Project

The research project report shall be examined in accordance with the requirements for such examinations in the Faculty of Agriculture.

Each candidate will submit, with the approval of the supervisors, a duly completed project paper for examination by the main supervisor and two independent examiners.

A candidate who fails the research project may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Examiners be allowed to resubmit the project paper up to a maximum of two times.

A candidate who fails in the second resubmission of the project paper or fails to complete the project within the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval of the senate, be discontinued.

A holder of a degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Botany and Zoology, Environmental Sciences, Forestry, Horticulture or related plant science degree or Bachelor of Education in Science with botany and Zoology option and any other relevant subject from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by Senate.

A holder of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the disciplines specified in 2.1 above with two years of relevant experience or a postgraduate diploma in 2.1 above or equivalent from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by Senate.

A holder of a pass degree in the disciplines specified 2.1 above with at least five years work experience in agricultural related field.

Application forms may be obtained from the Board of Postgraduate Studies, University of Nairobi Main Campus or may be downloaded from the University of Nairobi website: www.uonbi.ac.ke (“Admissions”). The completed application forms may be returned directly to the Chairman, Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Upper Kabete Campus.

The programme will be offered as full time, part time and through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes.

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 6 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part time

As above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open and Distance e-Learning

The mode of delivery of the Masters programme will be through open and distance learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

The common regulations for the Master’s degree of the University of Nairobi and Faculty

of Agriculture shall apply.

A holder of a degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours in Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Horticulture, Botany and Zoology, Environmental Sciences, Forestry, or related plant science degree or Bachelor of Education in Science with Botany and Zoology option and any other relevant subject from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by Senate.

Holders of a degree with at least Lower Second Class Honours in any of the degrees specified in (2.1) above with two years of relevant experience or a postgraduate diploma in (2.1) above or equivalent qualification from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognised by Senate.

Holders of a pass degree in disciplines specified in (2.1) above and a postgraduate diploma or its equivalent from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the senate.

Holders of a pass degree in the disciplines specified in (2.1) above with at least five years relevant work experience

The programme will be offered as full time, part time and through Open, Distance, and Electronic Learning (ODEL) for students who cannot attend regular University programmes.

Full-Time

The degree program shall consist of coursework, examinations and thesis.

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

Each candidate will be required to take and pass all courses.

Each candidate will be required to undertake a research project leading to an examinable thesis. The choice of the thesis research topic shall be made in consultation with the department and the academic supervisor.

Each course unit shall have 45 hours covered in one semester.

Part Time

As above in addition to the following:

The course shall cover a minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters and each semester will be 15 weeks.

A student shall be required to take a minimum of two and a maximum of four courses in one semester.

Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODEL)

The Open, Distance and e-Learning programme will run for a minimum of 4 semesters of 15 weeks each and a maximum of 8 semesters of 15 weeks each. The minimum calendar years for completion of the programme shall be 2 years and a maximum of 4 years. The minimum course load per semester will be 2 course units.

The mode of delivery will be through open and distance learning modes involving largely home and/ or office-based media:

Written self instructional study modules issued at registration time

Study course materials like booklets

Relevant literature

Interactive devices and self tests

Face to face introductory tutorials

Mediated technical learning materials for example:-

Audio visual

e-learning materials

Limited face-to-face sessions to provide overview of the course at commencement of semester, mid semester and revision period before examinations.

Support study centres at the University of Nairobi

Access to information through computers at the University of Nairobi.

Use of libraries at the University of Nairobi.

Orientation (immediately after registration):

Orientation in ODEL delivery.

Study, reading and computer skills.

Time management and techniques of handling assignments.

Mentorship, guidance and counselling.

Emphasis is on satellite centres that serve as a link between the University and the student in the following manner: registration, collecting reading materials, collecting results and programmes, examination information, posting timetable and holding meetings.

A candidate may be exempted from taking some course units and be allowed to transfer credits of the same up to a maximum of one third (⅓) of the taught units provided that these are from institutions recognized by the University of Nairobi Senate.

A candidate seeking transfer of credit shall send a formal application to the Board of Postgraduate Studies, through the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, justifying and supporting the request.

Transfer of credits shall be processed only after payment of the prescribed non-refundable fees.

Each course shall be examined by a written paper lasting three hours at the end of each semester in which the course is given.

The coursework assessment shall account for 30% and written examinations for 70% of the final mark.

The pass mark for each course shall be 50 %.

The grading of the courses shall be as follows:

A = 70% and above;

B = 60 – 69%;

C = 50 -59%;

D = 0 – 49% (fail)

A candidate who fails in any paper may, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, and approval by the Senate be allowed to take up to two supplementaries in failed papers after paying the appropriate fees.

A candidate who fails in the second supplementary or fails to complete the programme in the prescribed maximum duration of 8 semesters shall, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners and approval by the Senate, be discontinued.

The mark for a supplementary paper shall be recorded as 50% in the candidate’s academic record.

Thesis examination

Each student shall present a seminar on the thesis research proposal.

Each candidate shall submit for examination a thesis, with the approval of the academic supervisors, at the end of the final semester. The thesis shall be examined in accordance with the common regulations of the University of Nairobi.

A candidate who fails in the thesis examination may on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of examiners be allowed to resubmit the thesis within six months up to a maximum of two times.

A candidate who fails after the second resubmission or fails to complete the course in the prescribed period shall, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board and approval by Senate, be discontinued.